A Study on the Role of the Media and Its Effects on the Identity of Muslims (Part 30)
Considering the Role of the Media in the Formation of Public Opinion
Public opinion is one of the most vital and stable concepts in social sciences, widely used in psychology, sociology, history, political science, and communication research, both in academic contexts and practical applications.
By understanding the patterns that govern public opinion in a society, it becomes possible to predict how its people will behave in the future, especially during various incidents. This knowledge is crucial for rulers and politicians, as well as for sociologists and social psychologists. Public opinion significantly influences the stability or downfall of a government. Napoleon Bonaparte aptly stated: “Government can be won by the force of the bayonet, but to maintain it, one must rely on public opinion.”
The importance and dynamics of public opinion are particularly evident during war. Colonialist governments strive to align world public opinion in their favor, even prior to initiating conflicts with other nations. An example of this occurred in 2001, during the US-Iraq War, when the United States sought to pass resolutions against Iraq in the Security Council to sway global public opinion; however, it was unsuccessful in solidifying its position on this matter.
Historical studies identify three phases of colonialism: 1. Old colonialism, 2. New colonialism, and 3. Ultramodern colonialism. In the context of Ultramodern colonialism, rather than relying on warfare and bloodshed, the focus shifts to mentally and intellectually influencing a nation’s public opinion. This involves targeting worldview indicators, beliefs, insights, behaviors, and political, social, and cultural attitudes with the aim of ultimately altering the identity of nations.
Weakening national unity, exacerbating internal differences, fostering indifference toward national culture and identity, and depicting colonialists as benevolent within public opinion are critical strategies employed by instigators of ultramodern colonialism. Their success relies on understanding public opinion and the effective methods to influence it.
Thus, the need to study public opinion and to understand the factors and conditions that shape it—and thereby counter the psychological warfare waged by enemies—is evident.
Furthermore, one of the subtle tools that significantly impacts people’s beliefs over time is the use of television series for embedding desired messages. Nowadays, television series exert a greater influence than films; a movie may engage a person’s thoughts for only two or three hours, resulting in a transient impact with fewer conveyed messages. In contrast, a 100-episode series has a far more substantial and enduring effect, as it engages the audience’s thoughts for a more extended period. Additionally, series portray people’s daily lives, enabling viewers to empathize more readily with the characters and accept their behavioral patterns, particularly since these messages and patterns are presented in a subtle and professional manner.
Meanwhile, hundreds of news and propaganda programs are broadcast daily to shape public opinion, furthering the aims of colonial powers—this poses a significant challenge for many so-called third-world countries.
Why Does the Media Play Such an Important Role?
1. Katz argues that any consideration of public opinion’s nature necessitates an analysis of the media.
2. The media serves as the primary platform for disseminating information about public affairs.
3. People tend to trust the media and assume that whatever is presented through these channels is truthful.
4. The media holds particular significance for individuals during times of crisis.
Therefore, a primary task of the media—whether in the form of radio, television, print, or digital publications—is to clarify public opinion and enhance the community’s knowledge about societal issues. This responsibility can only be fulfilled with honesty and goodwill.
To explore the role of the media in shaping public opinion, the history of public opinion was first considered, followed by an examination of the media’s influence. It is clear that the media has a powerful role in directing thoughts and shaping behavior, which should not be overlooked. Public opinion has indeed influenced the actions, reactions, and interactions of even the largest and most powerful governments.
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