Developing a theoretical framework for contemporary feminist activism: #MeToo as a counter-public sphere

The aim of this paper is to develop a theoretical framework to understand contemporary forms of online feminist activism, focusing especially on the case of #MeToo. In particular, I wish to apply the concept of counter-public sphere developed by Nancy Fraser (1990) to the #MeToo movement in order to assess its role in public discussion. Hence, in the present contribution, I will start by briefly explaining the concept of counter-public sphere and its present relevance. I will then try to assess whether #MeToo can be framed as a feminist counter public sphere on account of its functioning and its contribution to the political discussion. This work will be mainly theoretical, and will draw for support on further concepts from more recent literature and on examples from events related to #MeToo in the media.