| This study proposes extension of previous research on media bias. A critical review, by content analysis, will analyze individual coverage of terrorism in five global newspapers for two individual time periods: pre-9/11, from September 11, 1998, to September 10, 2001; then, post-9/11, from September 11, 2003, to September 10, 2005. Longitudinal data collected from newspaper archives will be coded and analyzed, based on framing variables and other factors, such as frequency, length, and selectivity of themes and types of terrorist acts. The purpose of this study would be to uncover any patterns of similarities or dissimilarities occurring in terrorism coverage, worldwide, for the three years prior to September 11, 2001. To add a more dynamic quality to this research effort, a two-year period, after September 11, 2001, will also be examined for patterns of similar or dissimilar global terrorism coverage---for contrast. Results may provide enhanced understanding of whether geographic, historic, or cultural conditions affect terrorism coverage or result in media-biased coverage. This study may also identify divergent ranks of importance placed on terrorist acts by newspapers of varying countries, further accentuating the importance of media and its critical role in communicating terrorist acts. Comparisons between pre-9/11 and post-9/11 terrorism coverage may highlight shifts in emphasis, as a result of changed media approaches or perceptions. Investigation of these implications is appropriate for possible later application toward public policy, especially toward increased media reporting precautions. |
