Comparing Post-Socialist Media Systems: The Case of Southeast Europe

This book examines divergent media system trajectories in Southeast Europe and challenges the assumption that the common socialist experience critically influences media development after democratic transformations. It proposes a novel theoretical framework for comparative analysis of post-socialist media systems, building on historical institutionalism and critical junctures. The book extends the understanding of media systems beyond political journalism and is a valuable contribution to the literature on comparative media systems.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of divergent media system trajectories across Southeast Europe, challenging the prevailing assumption that the shared socialist experience holds significant sway over the outcome of media development following democratic transformations. Through a novel longitudinal set-theoretical methodological approach, the author makes a groundbreaking contribution to the field of media systems theory, offering a fresh theoretical framework for the comparative analysis of post-socialist media systems. This theoretical framework builds upon the foundations of historical institutionalism and incorporates the concept of critical junctures and path dependency to unravel the similarities and differences observed in the media systems of the Eastern European region.

By expanding the scope of media systems beyond a mere focus on political journalism, this book emerges as a valuable addition to the literature on comparative media systems. It appeals to scholars and researchers in the domains of media systems studies, political science, Southeast and Central European studies, post-socialist studies, and communication studies.

The book begins by examining the historical legacies and political contexts that shape media systems in Southeast Europe. It explores the complex interplay between state institutions, economic structures, and social movements, highlighting the diverse pathways taken by different countries in their media development journey. The author then delves into the specific factors that contribute to the divergence of media system trajectories, including the influence of external factors such as globalization, European integration, and media market competition.

The book employs a longitudinal set-theoretical approach, which allows for a comprehensive analysis of media systems over an extended period. By tracking the evolution of media institutions, regulatory frameworks, and media content, the author identifies key turning points and critical junctures that have influenced the course of media development. This approach enables a deeper understanding of the complex interrelationships between different factors and their impact on media systems, providing a rich empirical foundation for the theoretical framework.

Throughout the book, the author employs a comparative analysis to examine the similarities and differences between post-socialist media systems. By drawing on a wide range of case studies, including countries such as Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, and Romania, the author highlights the unique challenges and opportunities faced by each country in their media transformation process. The book explores the role of media ownership, regulatory frameworks, journalist training, and media literacy in shaping media systems, and examines how these factors have influenced the development of independent media, the rise of populist politics, and the spread of misinformation.

In conclusion, this book offers a groundbreaking contribution to the field of media systems theory. By challenging the assumption of a common outcome in media development after democratic transformations, it provides a nuanced understanding of the complex factors that shape media systems in the Eastern European region. Through a longitudinal set-theoretical approach and a comparative analysis, the author offers a novel theoretical framework for the comparative analysis of post-socialist media systems. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and policymakers interested in understanding the dynamics of media systems in post-socialist societies and their implications for democracy, media freedom, and social change.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367552923