“Media Bursts” delves into the phenomenon of concentrated media coverage and its profound impact on public opinion and current events. It examines how specific events, often amplified by social media, trigger intense bursts of media attention, reshaping public attitudes and influencing policy decisions. The book uniquely focuses on these “bursts” as distinct periods that create lasting effects on societal structures, often disproportionate to the initial event. The approach dissects the catalysts behind these bursts and their measurable impacts, drawing from historical examples like the Civil Rights Movement to modern viral news. It highlights how narrative framing plays a crucial role in shaping public understanding during these periods. Notably, the book argues that these bursts challenge the notion of a passive public, revealing how media subtly influences our collective understanding and actions.
Structured to provide a comprehensive understanding, the book progresses from establishing core concepts to investigating the origins of media bursts, analyzing their psychological effects, and presenting case studies across politics, economics, and social justice. It concludes with a discussion of ethical implications and strategies for critical media consumption. This makes “Media Bursts” valuable for anyone seeking to understand the power of media influence in the 21st century.
