Contemporary Challenges in Mediatisation Research

This book explores the challenges of conducting research on mediatization, including ignored and less frequently discussed topics, critical and controversial themes, and defining niches and directions of development. It also offers a critical assessment of the transformation of fields and the relevance of new and dynamic (meta)processes such as datafication, counter-mediatization, and platformization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realm of conducting research on mediatisation, presenting the most cutting-edge theoretical, empirical, and methodological challenges and problems. It addresses overlooked and less frequently discussed topics, explores critical and controversial themes, and establishes niches and directions for future development in this field. By critically examining the underrepresentation of certain topics and aspects, as well as methodological, technological, and ethical dilemmas, the chapters explore the main critical objections raised against mediatisation studies and engage in a constructive exchange of critical positions.

The book goes beyond the traditional focus on culture, sport, and religion, venturing into emerging areas of study such as fashion, the military, business, and the environment. It offers a critical assessment of the transformation of these fields and the relevance of new and dynamic (meta)processes, including datafication, counter-mediatisation, and platformisation. By charting new paths of development in mediatisation, this book appeals to scholars and students of mediatisation, media studies, media literacy, communication studies, and research methods.

The book is divided into several chapters, each addressing a specific aspect of mediatisation research. The first chapter provides an overview of the field, defining key concepts, theoretical frameworks, and research methodologies. It highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and the need to bridge gaps between different disciplines.

The second chapter explores the theoretical challenges associated with mediatisation, including issues related to power, ideology, and representation. It examines how media shapes public opinion, reinforces dominant narratives, and contributes to the construction of social identities. The chapter also discusses the role of media in the dissemination of information, the creation of news cycles, and the emergence of new forms of media consumption.

The third chapter focuses on the empirical challenges of mediatisation research, including the collection and analysis of data. It discusses the challenges of measuring media effects, the use of different research methods, and the ethical considerations involved in conducting research with vulnerable populations. The chapter also explores the role of new technologies, such as social media and big data analytics, in shaping mediatisation processes and the implications for research.

The fourth chapter examines the methodological challenges of mediatisation research, including the need for interdisciplinary approaches, the use of mixed methods, and the integration of theoretical and empirical perspectives. It discusses the challenges of conducting longitudinal research, the use of experimental designs, and the importance of reflexivity in research practices.

The fifth chapter explores the ethical considerations of mediatisation research, including issues related to privacy, consent, and the representation of marginalized communities. It discusses the responsibilities of researchers in ensuring the ethical conduct of their research and the importance of engaging with stakeholders and the public.

The sixth chapter examines the political and social implications of mediatisation, including the role of media in shaping political discourse, the distribution of power, and the emergence of new forms of social activism. It discusses the challenges of media regulation, the role of media conglomerates, and the potential for media democratisation.

The seventh chapter explores the cultural and aesthetic dimensions of mediatisation, including the role of media in shaping cultural norms, the production of popular culture, and the development of new forms of artistic expression. It discusses the challenges of media convergence, the role of media institutions, and the potential for media innovation.

The eighth chapter examines the international dimensions of mediatisation, including the role of media in shaping global communication, the distribution of knowledge, and the emergence of new global media ecosystems. It discusses the challenges of media regulation in a global context, the role of international organisations, and the potential for media cooperation.

The ninth chapter explores the future directions of mediatisation research, including the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, the use of new technologies, and the development of new research methodologies. It discusses the potential for new research areas, such as the mediatisation of health, education, and the environment, and the challenges of addressing emerging issues, such as media misinformation and the rise of authoritarianism.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the complex and multifaceted phenomenon of mediatisation. It addresses key challenges related to conducting research on mediatisation, presenting the most current theoretical, empirical, and methodological challenges and problems. By addressing overlooked and less frequently discussed topics, exploring critical and controversial themes, and defining niches and directions for future development, the book contributes to the growing body of knowledge in this field. It will be of interest to scholars and students of mediatisation, media studies, media literacy, communication studies, and research methods.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 156 x 235 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032349428