Public Sphere (spatial concept) - Where meanings can be articulated, distributed or negotiated.Public / Private
- Public sphere mediates between the private sphere and the sphere of public authority.
- Can exist in a political space - e.g. 6th century BC forum in Rome.
Historical Changes
Around 1750 saw ordinary citizens become involved in public discussions about issues of common concern.
The 'state' developed separately instead of the individual (the ruler, king) and so people could see the chance of contributing instead of being excluded.
Sociologist that studied the public sphere - Jurgen Habermas - Was the first to tacke the idea of measuring public opinion. The work is considered a foundation of contemporary public sphere theories.
He sought to examine the state of public view.
What was his Sphere? Due to specific historical circumstances a new civic society emerged in the 18th century.
- New commercial opportunities.
- News exchanged.
- Growing states of literacy.
Where did these discussions take place? Habermas privileged the oral in his definition of the public sphere e.g. Britain's coffee houses, France's salons.
The public sphere as a political space - To promote political debate and enable democracy. Habermas believed the sphere should only involve 'rational debate.'
What was allowed to be discussed; art and literacy, economic matters, political disputes.
What was wrong with Habermas' Model?
People were left out; the working class and women.
Disregarded status and political beliefs.
The church and the state still maintained dominance over issues of 'common concern'
What replaced the coffee houses?
The role of the media in changing the public sphere is a contested arena. Mass media play out a double roll here, both as the vehicle for competitive space and mass media.
Propaganda
Biased newscasts occur, embedded journalists, misinformation. Used to shape the individual asking certain questions and not asking others.
Journalists had Freedom in the Vietnam war but it's very much limited in this century.
The role of the media in changing the public sphere is a contested arena. Mass media play out a double roll here, both as the vehicle for competitive space and mass media.
Propaganda
Biased newscasts occur, embedded journalists, misinformation. Used to shape the individual asking certain questions and not asking others.
Journalists had Freedom in the Vietnam war but it's very much limited in this century.
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