What role did social and mobile media play during the Arab Spring protests of 2011?

During the Arab Spring protests of 2011, social and mobile media were critical in facilitating communication and organization among protesters, making the selected answer accurate. These platforms allowed individuals to share information rapidly, mobilize supporters, and coordinate protests in real time, dramatically increasing the effectiveness and reach of their movements. Social media networks like Twitter and Facebook provided a space for activists to broadcast messages, share live updates, and amplify their calls for change.

The use of social media also broke through state-controlled media narratives, allowing for grassroots storytelling and highlighting on-the-ground realities that might not have been covered by traditional news outlets. Additionally, mobile media empowered individuals to document events as they unfolded, creating a powerful means of sharing experiences and garnering international attention.

In contrast to the selected answer, the other options misrepresent the role of social and mobile media. They were not simply used after the protests or for entertainment; instead, they served a pivotal function in the organizing and mobilizing efforts during the protests. The notion that social and mobile media had no significant impact is also inaccurate, as demonstrated by the pivotal role these platforms played in connecting activists and facilitating the rapid dissemination of information throughout various countries experiencing upheaval.