Example Of How Media Plays A Role In Politics Research Paper

In contemporary times, media has evolved to encompass wider means of communication from the traditional channels, especially with the prolific use of the Internet. As such, media has been observed as pervading various facets of life, including politics. According to Weisbrot, “the media helps define and choose the issues, and acts as gatekeeper in setting the limits for political discussion and sometimes even candidacies for public office” (par. 1). The current discourse hereby aims to assert that media plays a significant role in politics through its ability to influence the perception of the public depending on the persuasive contexts.
In Weisbrot’s article, the role that media plays in politics include vetoing candidates and influencing opinion of voters. As disclosed, Obama’s candidancy for presidency then, was enhanced through effective persuasion techniques that “tap into the voters' deep desire for change, with inspirational speeches, transcendental narratives, and celebrity-studded videos” . Moreover, in a study undertaken by Swigger, the author explored the link between the use of the online medium and the attitude of users to democratic values. As revealed, “online self-publicizing activity seems to teach Americans to support values like freedom of expression, while lowering support for the right to privacy” .
In sum, these assertions confirm that media has evident abilities to influence and change the perception of people and eventually sway them towards intended goals. With the prolific use of the online medium, in conjunction with traditional forms, the area of political transformation was seen to be more robust and dynamic with increased participation from a wider audience.

Works Cited

Swigger, Nathaniel. "The Online Citizen: Is Social Media Changing Citizens’ Beliefs About Democratic Values?" Political Behavior (2012): 1-15.
Weisbrot, Mark. "Media Has Large, Often Unnoticed Role In National Politics." The Huffington Post 25 May 2011: 1.