Social media has most definitely helped the people of many countries to revolt against oppressive governments and overthrow corrupt rules. Still, the point is overdrawn; after all, there were many revolutions before the invention of social media, and governments have, in the past, shut down the internet successfully in their country.
Social media has played a key role in the revolutions and calls for freedom in Tunisia and Egypt. In fact, without social media, neither revolution would have happened as social media was key in spreading the word about government cruelty and organizing peace demonstrations. In follow-ups after initial demonstrations, it has also been used to communicate backlash against protesters, which has fed into the persistance of those seeking freedom.
Yes social media has definitely helped the cause of the people's revolutions and call for freedom in Tunisia and Egypt. This is because more people can see what is happening thanks to social media. Also, people in other countries can find out what is happening. This means more support across the globe.
When repressive regimes try to limit freedom and free speech, social media has come to the aid of contemporary revolutions all over Arab countries in the Middle East and Northern Africa. When Iran's election turmoil in 2009 was broadcast in America, it was social media that leaked images of bloody clashes despite a press blackout instituted by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's regime. Social media helped organize Tunisia and Egypt's revolutions as one or two seemingly small acts galvanized both nations to action. This is how real change is affected now--instead of Paul Revere's ride, now we have his Twitter feed.
No, social media has not helped the cause of the people's revolutions and call for freedom in Tunisia and Egypt, because the people in those countries, especially the young people, are no better off than they were before. Even though social media has allowed for exchange of information, this has not led to a better quality of life for the people.