Media

How the media portrays prevailing differences within society can lead to diversity being experienced as either an innovative force, or adversely, a destabilizing factor. For instance, the media could characterize the existence of differences as problematic, but they could also be identified as an inherent part of society. News media, by definition, are concerned with relaying extraordinary and unexpected events, and the way they report on them can have a profound impact on the nature and tone of the resultant public debate. It can be a question then of whose word is heard, and in what manner. From which perspective is the news reported?

How is it framed to connect to the experiences of the intended audience, or fit a given theme? It can be asked whether the manner of reporting pays adequate attention to the processes that take place in a changing society. Does the variety and scope of opinions expressed in the media do justice to the pluriform nature of the actual public debate? In theory, internet offers a place for unhindered and open public debate, but it is unclear to what extent this occurs in practice. The rise of the internet and social media has surely altered the dynamics of the media landscape. Regular people are now free to publish and share their own opinions and news with friends and strangers alike, who may or may not hold similar beliefs to their own.

Politicians and leaders enjoy the same freedom, which gives them the ability to circumvent mainstream media and communicate directly with the people. This increased competition in the area of media has had consequences with regard to the relationship between journalist and source. For example, new genres such as talk shows and infotainment programs now offer politicians a platform from which they can bring forth their own story, and thus directly affect the public agenda.