(Social) Media and their Role in Public Discourse

The role of the mass media in political communication and more specifically agenda
setting has changed significantly, not only since Donald Trump’s opposition to traditional mass media and preference for social media. The following article examines the
role of the media in the formation of public opinion in liberal democracies. In particular, the paper explores a shift in the power of interpretation in the agenda setting
process, for example, when journalists are questioned in their gatekeeper role. From
Gatekeeper to Gatewatcher? This perceived threat to journalism is receiving attention
in many places. Social media are the main drivers of this role change. Yet how are they
changing public discourse and the role of mass media? The paper discusses these two
core questions as well as the opportunities and risks for political discourse that the
increasing use of social media entails.