Media Sociology and Journalism: Studies in Truth and Democracy

Media Sociology and Journalism explores the relationship between news media, politics, and contemporary sociological theory, focusing on the persistence of opposing truth claims and their impact on democracy. It examines the rise of populism, fake news, conspiracy theories, neoliberalism, nihilism, white nationalism, and the flights from and to democracy. A dialogical critique of divisions in news media, politics, and contemporary sociological theory offers an alternative way forward, highlighting the fragility of democracy due to right populism, fake news, and post-truth attitudes. Case studies of mainstream journalism on immigration, urban poverty, and cultural diversity further examine the fragility of democracy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 14 February 2023
Publisher: Anthem Press

Media Sociology and Journalism delve into the intricate interplay of news media, politics, and contemporary sociological theory to explore the dynamics of contemporary society. The unwavering commitment to opposing truth claims in these domains highlights the fragility of democracy as a social structure and governing regime. Engaging in debates on competing explanations for post-truth attitudes, the rise of populism, the proliferation of fake news, conspiracy theories, neoliberalism, nihilism, white nationalism, and the dynamics of democratic transitions, the study emphasizes the persistence of deeply entrenched disagreements where each side perceives the other's assertions as existential threats.

A dialogical critique of divisions within news media, politics, and contemporary sociological theory emerges as a transformative approach, offering an alternative path forward. Right-wing populism, the spread of fake news, and post-truth attitudes erode the foundations of democracy, rendering it vulnerable. It is argued that professional journalism, too, contributes to this fragility by either reporting or offering opinions on the most vulnerable aspects of society without adequately addressing them as their intended audience.

To further examine the fragility at the heart of democracy, the study delves into case studies of mainstream acts of journalism focused on themes such as immigration, urban poverty, and cultural diversity. These case studies shed light on the delicate balance between freedom, equality, and rule by the people, and the potential for authoritarian demagogues to exploit these gaps. Through these in-depth analyses, Media Sociology and Journalism provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics shaping contemporary society and the challenges facing democratic institutions.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 158 x 237 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839980602