NCJ Number
84613
Date Published
1981
Length
201 pages
Annotation
Based upon British case studies of the political violence in industrial disputes, mass demonstrations, and terrorist incidents, the role of the mass media in stimulating and inhibiting political violence is examined.
Abstract
An examination of the media's role in the industrial violence of Saltley and Grunwick suggests that the media generally reflected the views of the public, which dislikes strikes and especially strikes of public services and violent picketing. Any bias against strikers arouses a sense of injustice and increases the likelihood of frustration exploding into violence. Broader coverage of the background of industrial disputes and a focus upon the issues can encourage a rational approach to resolving industrial disputes. In the case of violent political demonstrations, the media have sometimes appeared to focus on violent police behavior as though to suggest that the violence stems from unwarranted police action. A balanced portrayal of violent behavior in demonstrations can influence a public outcry against violence by any person or group associated with political demonstrations. In the coverage of terrorist incidents, the media should seek to avoid being used by the terrorists to publicize their cause through violent incidents. Extensive coverage of terrorist ideological and political goals following violent terrorist acts should be avoided. The media should not conduct interviews with violent terrorists as it has in the past. A reasonable approach by the media in the treatment of political violence could be encouraged through self-regulation by an Institute for the Mass Media, which would set and enforce ethical codes much as do professional associations for medical and law professionals. Notes accompany each chapter, and a bibliography of about 70 listings is provided.