Civic Engagement 2.0: How Social Media and Gamification are Changing the Way Community Organizations and Businesses Interact

Traditional methods for engaging participants and conducting social cause initiatives are declining in effectiveness due to shifts in levels of online activity and narcissism that is exacerbated by the misuse of social media. An effective tool to combat these issues is an emerging concept known as gamification. This study examines several organizations currently using gamification methodologies for the purpose of furthering civic engagement and social causes. Analysis of the data reveals that gamification can be extremely effective in: incentivizing civic engagement, combatting narcissistic apathy, creating meaningful experiences tied to social good and opening new marketing channels for businesses and social cause organizations to work together more effectively.