slacktivism

or slac·tiv·ism

[ slak-tuh-viz-uhm ]

noun

, Sometimes Disparaging.

1. actions taken to endorse and promote political or social causes and movements, but involving only minimal commitment, effort, or risk:

   The students engage in slacktivism by joining civic groups but rarely participate in group projects.

slacktivism

/ ˈslæktɪˌvɪzəm /

noun

1. the public proclaiming of one's political beliefs through activities that require little effort or commitment

Derived Forms

• ˈslacktiˌvist, noun

Other Words From

• slacktiv·ist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of slacktivism¹

First recorded in 1995–2000; slack(er) + (ac)tivism

Word History and Origins

Origin of slacktivism¹

C21: a blend of slacker and activism

Example Sentences

This is commonly known as "clicktivism", "slacktivism" or "digital activism".

From BBC

“Any family that buys this box has moved past slacktivism.”

From New York Times

It turns out that hashtag activism — "slacktivism," if you prefer — is effective.

From Washington Post

Other hashtags derided as slacktivism have had similarly lasting impact.

From Washington Post

This was not activism, critics said, but "slacktivism," and it would make no difference in the offline universe.

From Washington Post