Social networks, the fabrication of popular manifestations and attacks against democracy on January 8, 2023 in Brazil

Abstract

This article investigates how social networks have transformed themselves from the political power of popular expression to algorithmic bubbles and the fabrication of fascism in Brazil. It analyzes the spectacular aspects that led to the attacks of January 8 in Brasilia. This article is based on Paul Virilio's studies on space construction, Castells' assumptions about the advent of networks, and Yann Moulier-Boutang's studies on capitalism and cognitive capitalism. Possible semiotics of the discourse is also discussed based on the provisions of narratives built on the networks in manufacturing the terrorist acts of January 8, 2023. In the end, a panorama was constructed from which, with the distancing of time and verification of layers of meaning, we may develop machinations that perpetuate political and mediatic models that weaken the potential of social groups and of democracy itself.