Constructing Hegemony: The South African Commercial Media and the (Mis)Representation of Nationalisation

Post-apartheid South Africa faces challenges in its economic transformation, and the commercial media plays a central role in shaping policy debates. This book provides a Marxist critique of the representation of the nationalisation of the mines debate by the South African commercial media, arguing that the global capitalist hegemony has a more powerful effect on the media than previously thought.

Format: Hardback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Post-apartheid South Africa continues to grapple with the formidable task of economic transformation, stemming from decades of apartheid and colonization. The urgent demand for a revolutionary change has led to a series of policy initiatives, including ongoing calls for the nationalization of the economy. However, the commercial media, while playing a crucial role in shaping policy debates, operates as an ideological tool and an economic resource, as it is owned and controlled by individuals with political and economic interests. Consequently, it tends to endorse and promote their interests.

In this insightful book, Radebe delves into a Marxist critique of the representation of the nationalization of the mines debate by the South African commercial media. Through a comprehensive examination of corporate control over the media, Radebe uncovers the intricate interrelationships between the State, Capital, and the Media. He sheds light on how commercial media shapes, influences, and represents public policy.

Radebe's findings reveal that factors such as ownership, commercialization, and the influence of advertising on news content are only a fraction of the broader picture. He argues that the global capitalist hegemony exerts a more profound impact on the commercial media in South Africa than previously assumed. This hegemony shapes the media's agenda, narratives, and editorial decisions, ultimately influencing public opinion and policy outcomes.

The book's significance lies in its ability to challenge dominant narratives and provide a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play in the South African media landscape. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, activists, and policymakers seeking to navigate the complexities of media representation and its impact on social and economic development.

While the print edition of this book is not available for sale in Sub-Saharan Africa, its insights and arguments remain relevant and important for those interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities of post-apartheid South Africa's economic transformation.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032630915