| Popis: |
Populist politicians were often given a platform by the mainstream media, arguably legitimising their Eurosceptic emotive Post-Truth rhetoric and hate speech, often appearing first on social media. Some newspapers supported the populists. Others got lazy, overly relying on their quotes. Often journalists created a false equivalence, showing too much deference, creating a questionable balance in reporting. Various newspapers constructed some Eurosceptic emotive Post-Truth rhetoric and indeed hate speech of their own. But sometimes the media called it out, challenging unsubstantiated politicians’ claims. This is crucial to protect democracy and maintain political accountability. A new, methodical, facts-based approach to reporting which also actively exercises the public’s emotions is urgently needed. There is some evidence to suggest this approach is more prevalent in Italy. Journalists must respond to the challenge social media has presented. |
