The document discusses the rise of social media and its impact on society and government. It notes how social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter have become major sources of political discussion and for analyzing sentiment around debates and candidates. Two case studies are presented about large, unorganized parties called Project X that emerged through social media buzz in Haren and Arnhem. Various themes are discussed that are driving changes like scalability, direct communication, seamless cooperation and transparency. The role of social media in areas like crowdsourcing policy and new models of eGovernment and civic participation are explored.