The Construction of News in a Polarised State: Maltese Advocacy Journalism

This book provides a detailed overview of the contemporary media system in Malta, examining three news organizations and finding that advocacy dominates, despite previous research suggesting otherwise. It advocates for a responsible form of advocacy journalism to extend media diversity and contribute to national political engagement.

Format: Hardback
Length: 126 pages
Publication date: 24 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of the contemporary media system in Malta, employing a qualitative approach rooted in original case studies. By examining three prominent Maltese news organizations, the author aims to unravel the editorial routines, ownership and management structures, and the social and cultural factors that shape the day-to-day operations of news creation. Through in-depth interviews with key stakeholders from each organization, coupled with a qualitative textual analysis of their published content, the author seeks to provide a holistic understanding of the media landscape in Malta.

Contrary to previous research, the findings of this study reveal that advocacy continues to hold a dominant position in Maltese journalism, indicating that the country retains similarities to other media systems within its geographic region. While acknowledging that objectivity and balance are considered the gold standards in journalism, the author argues for a responsible and measured form of advocacy journalism to enhance media diversity and contribute to a high level of national political engagement.

The Construction of News in a Polarised State is a valuable resource for scholars and academics in the fields of media and communication studies, political science, and sociology. It sheds light on the unique dynamics of small states and highlights the importance of paying closer attention to these nations, particularly in the context of growing social and political divisions. The book offers insightful perspectives and theories that can contribute to our understanding of the media's role in shaping public opinion and influencing political outcomes.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 147 x 226 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032219943