the fifth estate

The phrase "the fifth estate" typically refers to the concept of an additional sphere of influence and power in society, beyond the traditional four estates (or pillars) of democracy: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, as well as the media (known as the fourth estate). The fifth estate represents various influential groups or individuals who directly or indirectly affect public discourse and hold significant power, often in the realm of social and digital media. It encompasses bloggers, social media activists, citizen journalists, whistleblowers, and other non-traditional sources of information and opinions that have emerged with the rise of the internet and technology. The term suggests that this newly recognized force has the ability to shape public opinion, challenge established power structures, and influence political decisions.