The current growth of incidents of public disorder around the world can be seen as symptomatic of major transformations in globalized society, government, and technology. But while disorder is routinely perceived as a disturbing phenomenon, it can also be a catalyst for positive transformation and regeneration. As social media is increasingly used as a platform for mobilization and organization, local disorder may spread outward through national borders, receiving international coverage and visibility as well as triggering a domino effect of global unrest.

Combining qualitative and...