A Gossip Politic

This book explores the historical, technological, and discursive connections between gossip, news media, and contemporary politics, offering a new framework for understanding gossip in the context of news talk and political actors. It examines the influence of gossip on the press, the American presidency, and the public and provides a multi-faceted portrait of how gossip has shaped media history, influenced our understanding of democracy, and contributed to the current political landscape.

Format: Hardback
Length: 179 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This book delves into the intricate connections between gossip, news media, and contemporary politics, unveiling a rich tapestry of historical, technological, and discursive relationships. Authored by esteemed scholars from diverse fields such as Political Science, Media Studies, Linguistics, and Sociology, the chapters in this comprehensive volume explore the profound influence of gossip on the press, the American presidency, and the broader public. Through a multi-faceted lens, A Gossip Politic sheds light on how gossip has shaped media history, influenced our understanding of democracy, and contributed to the current political landscape.

In the early days of human communication, gossip played a vital role in sharing information and shaping social relationships. It was a form of informal communication that often took place in small groups, and it served as a way for people to stay connected and informed about the goings-on in their communities. However, as society evolved, gossip began to be viewed with suspicion and disdain, particularly in the realm of politics.

The press, as a powerful institution, was particularly sensitive to the influence of gossip. In the past, the press was often seen as a bastion of truth and integrity, but as gossip became more prevalent, it became clear that the media could be manipulated by those with vested interests. The spread of false information and rumors through gossip could have serious consequences for the public, including political instability and social unrest.

The American presidency was also heavily influenced by gossip. The media's obsession with celebrity and scandal often led to the coverage of presidential affairs in a gossip-like manner. This type of coverage could have a significant impact on public opinion and the outcome of elections. For example, the Watergate scandal of the 1970s, which involved the illegal activities of the Nixon administration, was largely reported through gossip channels and tabloids, and it played a significant role in the president's resignation.

In recent years, the rise of social media has further blurred the lines between gossip and news. Social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook have given individuals the ability to share information and opinions with a global audience, and this has led to the spread of gossip and rumors at an unprecedented rate. The speed at which information can be shared on social media can also make it difficult to verify the accuracy of the information, which can lead to further confusion and misinformation.

Despite these challenges, gossip continues to play a significant role in contemporary politics. Political actors use gossip as a tool to gain attention, influence public opinion, and shape the narrative around their campaigns. For example, during the 2016 presidential election, Donald Trump's campaign was heavily influenced by gossip and rumors, particularly those related to his personal life and business dealings. These rumors were often spread by conservative news outlets and social media users, and they played a significant role in shaping the public's perception of Trump and his campaign.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive exploration of the historical, technological, and discursive links between gossip, news media, and contemporary politics. It sheds light on the profound influence of gossip on the press, the American presidency, and the broader public. By examining the ways in which gossip has shaped media history, influenced our understanding of democracy, and contributed to the current political landscape, A Gossip Politic offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of modern society.

Weight: 385g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031151187
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023