Distrust of representation: Habermas on the public sphere
Article Abstract:
The social criticism of Jurgen Habermas explains the influence of mass media upon political society, as exemplified by his concept of the public sphere in his book 'Structural Transformation of the Public Sphere.' He distrusts representation by communications media, suborned into agendas of propaganda and economic manipulation. Previously, the public sphere consisted of a forum for communication aimed at mutual knowledge and understanding. There is now a threat to democracy by media with purposive agendas.
Publication Name: Media, Culture & Society
Subject: Mass communications
ISSN: 0163-4437
Year: 1993
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Feminism, the public sphere, media and democracy
Article Abstract:
Jurgen Habermas' idea of the public sphere should be favorably considered by feminist social critics. Unfortunately, many feminist critics such as Nancy Fraser condemn Habermas as a biased male. Fraser has revised Habermas' public sphere into a post-bourgeois, post-masculine model which retains the traditional dominance of the media. A return to the public sphere idea would indicate the antidemocratic tendencies of mass media, and enable feminists to advance the cause of media access and social diversity.
Publication Name: Media, Culture & Society
Subject: Mass communications
ISSN: 0163-4437
Year: 1993
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Witnessing
Article Abstract:
The idea of the importance of witnessing in television news is examined. A witness is by definition ever ready to see and tell the truth as it is seen, and news programs like to promote themselves as ready to deliver the news. The objectivity and sensationalism of eyewitness reports on new is examined.
Publication Name: Media, Culture & Society
Subject: Mass communications
ISSN: 0163-4437
Year: 2001
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