Question- Discuss the role of Mass Media in Terrorism. Explain.

Answer -

Terrorism is commonly defined as a form of politically motivated violence and intimidation, which uses communication strategies to amplify its intended effect of causing terror. It employs a wide range of platforms, including so-called ‘traditional’ news media such as newspapers and television, as tools. However, the role of the mass media in the advancement of terrorism’s objectives is controversial, even within academic literature, as it is difficult to draw direct lines of causation due to the diversity of factors contributing to terrorism and the process of radicalisation.

The mass media-terrorism relationship has been going on for many years. The media enables individuals to interpret and evaluate events quickly. In this way, individuals simplify and structure the narrative of terrorist attacks and activities. The news frameworks in the media help the public to formulate their predictions and thoughts about terrorist events. Gerbner, Gross, Morgan, Signorielli, and Shanahan emphasize the role of the media in creating people’s perceptions of social reality and setting the public agenda. At the same time, these scholars argue that the media plays a greater role in shaping public opinion. Similarly, Dorothee thinks that since September 11, London, Madrid, and Oklahoma terror attacks, the media has been playing a role in shaping the perception of terrorism by most people. Clearly, most of the academic studies have shown that television broadcasts, especially after the September 11 and Oklahoma terror attacks, cause post-traumatic stress disorder and depression on civilians.

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