Project Background
Polarization has caused many citizens to withdraw from societal conversations, allowing dominant voices to reinforce polarization and complicate public opinion interpretation. The media’s role in confrontational discussions is crucial yet challenging. The research aims to uncover reasons for socially constructed silence, and examine the media’s role in polarized discussions, using a theoretical model to explain the phenomenon and promote democratic discussion.
Research objectives
The research project investigates why people withdraw from societal discussions and what role the media plays in polarized debates.
The aim is to produce socially impactful knowledge that benefits media professionals by uncovering the reasons behind citizens’ silence and identifying ways to encourage greater participation in public discourse.
The project’s hypothesis is that acknowledging perspectives situated between opposing viewpoints can reduce the black-and-white nature of public debate and enhance the diversity of voices in media coverage.
The research asks:
1. What factors influence people to withdraw from societal discussions?
2. What is the role and significance of the media in polarized discussions?
3. How does the media construct interpretations of public opinion in polarized situations?
4. How can the media act to mitigate polarized discussions?
Contact information
D.Soc.Sc. Maarit Mäkinen
maarit.makinen@tuni.fi