Fear and Crisis in the Post-Truth Era

The ""Othering"" of America

Laura Constable Franklin

$105

Hardback

Forthcoming
Pre-Order now

QTY:

English

Routledge
18 December 2024

Communication studies; History of the Americas; Media studies; Political campaigning & advertising; Press & journalism

Series: Routledge Focus on Communication Studies

This book explores how political crisis talk, even false, can thread its way into the media and impact public opinion, legislation and everyday lives.

Grounded in theory and supported by data, this text illustrates the powerful presence of the media in the public sphere and argues for a different approach towards the reiteration of misrepresentations and lies. Three case studies explore the strategic use of “othering” in the 21st century: The false depiction of Sharia and passage of anti-Sharia legislation in Tennessee; the anti-Muslim Congressional hearings sponsored by Rep. Peter King; and charges of Mexican criminality espoused by former President Donald Trump. A fourth case study illustrates the versatility of this mode of rhetoric through a thematic comparison of two nationalist speeches delivered years apart in vastly different settings. Findings suggest that many of the themes and tactics used in nationalist discourse remain startingly consistent. The reporting of false or overblown claims by the media often legitimized untruths, leading to additional repetition and exposure. Finally, it looks ahead, raising awareness of “othering” efforts with new minorities and the overall societal impact of demonization.

For students and scholars exploring the tactics of nationalism and the power of mediatization, this book offers a dynamic, timely analysis of the effects that “othering” and false depictions have on innocent lives and the role that our most well-respected media outlets have played in the process.

By: Laura Constable Franklin
Imprint: Routledge
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 216mm, Width: 138mm,
ISBN: 9781032940601
ISBN 10: 1032940603
Series: Routledge Focus on Communication Studies
Pages: 144
Publication Date: 18 December 2024
Audience: College/higher education , Professional and scholarly , Primary , Undergraduate
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Laura Constable Franklin holds a Ph.D. in Mass Communication from the University of Southern Mississippi. A former Communications Director and media strategist, she lives in New Orleans, Louisiana.