Work

The Ethics of Anonymity in Protest and Resistance: A Critical Analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This paper provides a critical analysis of the ethics of anonymity in protest and resistance movements, offering novel perspectives that transcend traditional debates. We argue that the digital surveillance age necessitates a fundamental re-evaluation of anonymity, moving beyond a simplistic dichotomy of transparency versus secrecy. Drawing on a multidisciplinary approach that integrates political philosophy, surveillance studies, media ethics, and empirical data analysis, we introduce the concept of “strategic anonymity” as a vital tool for democratic participation in the 21st century. Our analysis is grounded in a comprehensive review of academic literature, historical precedents, and contemporary case studies, including the use of Guy Fawkes masks in global protest movements. We present empirical evidence from a newly synthesized dataset to demonstrate the complex relationships between civil liberties, state surveillance, and the acceptance of protest anonymity. The paper concludes by proposing a new ethical framework that balances the legitimate needs for accountability with the imperative to protect dissent in an era of pervasive digital monitoring.

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.22089326

Author: TAN, Kwan Hong

Institutions: University of Suffolk, University of West London, University of Northampton, Singapore University of Social Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Law, Rights, and Freedoms

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7204202229

FWCI:

Cites:

Cited by:

Related to: