Unraveling Fan Psychology in Social Movements: Insights from the Hands-Off Protest

In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the intersection of fan behavior and social movements, using her early research and the recent Hands-Off protest as case studies. Poston digs into the mechanisms behind successful progressive movements, highlighting the power of collective identity, symbolism, and anti-fandom in mobilizing people. Drawing comparisons with the Women's March, she explains why some movements fail to sustain momentum and offers insights into how progressive organizers can harness the principles of fan psychology to create lasting social change. Additionally, Poston shares updates on her current research on algorithmic suppression and discusses the importance of amplifying marginalized voices in academia.

00:00 Introduction to PsyberSpace

00:23 Exploring Fan Behavior and Social Movements

01:52 Terminology and Concepts in Fandom

03:01 Case Study: Women's March and Hands-Off Protest

04:58 The Power of Symbols in Movements

07:57 Fan Psychology and Movement Building

10:00 Recent Research and Insights

13:32 Digital Organizing and Future Strategies

19:39 Conclusion and Future Directions

20:58 Show Updates and Listener Engagement