The second layer is used for
the formation of political opinions. It has a smaller user group: the politically interested and the political opinion leaders.Web Tools used today in this layer are primarily discussion forums with a political focus: Some are operated by parties, others are independent. I expect in the future primarily independent platforms for this second layer: The politically interested want an open, broad debate and no "propaganda".And it is increasingly possible on social platforms today, to filter the information flows according to preferences ('Follow'), across all party boarders.
The tools will change significantly in this area with the possibilities of web 2.0.In Switzerland,
politnetz.ch is a good example showing the direction political web 2.0 tools may take:
- Strong integration with the first layer of mobilization (Facebook & Twitter) - Resulting in a broad political discussion.
- Not just content, but people: The social web is all about people, profiles, connections, friendships etc
- Enhanced functions to collectively form & express opinions: The "I Like" of Facebook is available for comments, as well as for people (political Support)
An integration with the third layer is however still missing.