Politics and the media Flashcards
Give examples of how the press have claimed to have a major influence in politics?
The Sun headline 1992 It’s the sun wot won it” 1997 Its the Sun that swung it!
Conservative domination coincides with strong election performances in the last 4 elections
Is the influence of the news declining?
Ofcoms report 2021 - ony 32% of adults read a paper
2017 Labour increased its vote share by 9.6% despite being ridiculed in the press
2011 phone hacking scandal led to a lack of confidene in the press 51% of adults don’t trust tabloids
Press influential with older voters
How does broadcast media influence voters?
Ofcoms 2021 news consumption report claims that tv is the most popular platform for news. 79% of adults watch it
46% of adults listen to the radio
24 hour news great for politicians
Briadcasters have to be impartal though
Live debates put more focus on the personality of the politiciaMedia gaffes can affect a politicians reputation - e.g Diana Abbos mistakes in 2017
Broadcast media in shaping voter behaviour is limited e.g Nick Clegg failed to improved the Lib Dems vote share despite many TV appearances in 2010
May and Johnson avoided TV debates but had good success.
How has social media influenced voting?
Claimed to create political polarisation as individuals surround themselves with like minded people and may not be exposed to alternatives
Adverts means political groups can target groups of voters based on their interests and onine behaviour.
Social media has created challenges around the spread of misinformation
How have opinion polls influenced voter behaviour?
They ask a smaple of people how they intend to vote
Polls ask the public detailed questions about their opinion of party leaders and their policies
Exit polls ask voters how they have voted as they leave the polling station
The impact of polls on intentions and turnout can either increase or deflate turnout
Opinion polls can encourage parties to adjust their policies in response to voter preference
Polls aren’t always accurate e.g in 2017 campaign the Conservatives had a commanding lead over Labourwhich may have reduced the urgency of their campaign in the marginal constituencies.