Sociological explanation of the impact of (virtual) social networks on the security of political participation in the Islamic Republic of Iran(Case study: Tehrani citizens)

Political participation is one of the most important pillars of political systems, and the security of political participation is also very important. Virtual social networks can affect the security of political participation due to the power of mobilization and influence on public opinion. In fact, virtual space and virtual social networks are considered as important tools in soft threat, which can be effective on the gap between the elites and the government with the people and the direction of public opinion. The present research is a survey in terms of methodology. The sampling method was multi-stage and random clusters, the sample size was determined based on Cochran's formula based on the population over 18 years of age in each region, a total of 1913 people. There is a significant and positive relationship between (virtual) social networks and social awareness and demandingness. There is a significant and positive relationship between social awareness and demandingness with the security of political participation.The result is that social networks, due to the functions of informing, publishing all kinds of news, and the speed of publishing, as well as capabilities such as influencing public opinion, directing the general trends of society and sensitizing society to various issues. They play an important role in social political awareness, security in the field of political participation and social demands.