Franklin, Laura Constable,

Fear and crisis in the post-truth era : the "othering" of America / Laura Constable Franklin. - New York, NY : Routledge, 2025. - 1 online resource (117 pages). - Routledge focus on communication studies . - Routledge focus on communication studies. .

"Routledge Focus" - from cover.

"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"--

9781003568735 1003568734 9781040314166 1040314163 9781040314203 1040314201

10.4324/9781003568735 doi


Mass media and nationalism--United States.
Mass media--Political aspects--United States.
National characteristics, American.
National characteristics in mass media.
Other (Philosophy) in mass media.
Communication in politics--United States.
LANGUAGE ARTS & DISCIPLINES / Communication
SOCIAL SCIENCE / Media Studies
POLITICAL SCIENCE / General

302.23