Digital Society^s Perception of Charismatic Authority in Indonesian Political Landscape: An Examination of YouTube^s User Comments
Aurelius Ratu, Tri Dani Widyastuti, Ni Wayan Suarmini, Mohamad Syaifullah, Choriul Mahfud, Wahyudin

Department of Development Studies, Faculty of Creative Design and Bussiness Digital, ITS

Abstract

This research constitutes a comprehensive examination of user interactions with YouTube videos centered around the process of selecting presidential candidates, spanning from July to August. This analytical endeavor leverages Weber^s established framework of political authority, which encompasses three distinct categories: traditional, charismatic, and rational-legal authority. The study^s findings reveal a discernible predilection among users for charismatic authority, thus illuminating a prevailing inclination towards leaders who possess charismatic qualities. This pronounced proclivity towards charismatic authority carries profound implications. Firstly, it underscores a collective yearning for political change, indicating a sentiment of dissatisfaction or disillusionment with the existing political landscape. Moreover, the discernible sense of uncertainty and crisis evident within specific user segments, as reflected in their engagement within the comments section, signifies a broader societal context characterized by turbulence and unrest. The significance of these findings extends beyond mere academic inquiry. They offer valuable insights for prospective presidential candidates seeking to navigate the intricacies of modern politics. Understanding the user-generated appeal for charismatic leadership becomes a strategic imperative, enabling candidates to craft their political narratives and campaign strategies more effectively. It provides a unique vantage point into the evolving nature of political leadership, shedding light on the qualities that resonate with contemporary digital citizens. However, this research is merely the inception of a broader exploration. A deeper dive into the phenomenon of personalized charismatic authority and its potential to fuel the rise of populism emerges as a pertinent avenue for subsequent research.

Keywords: political authority- YouTube- charismatic leader- Presidential Candidates- Weber^s typology

Topic: Development Studies and Humanities