Resett as an alternative news outlet A content analysis of Resett and its reporting on immigration and Islam
Master thesis
Published version
Permanent lenke
https://hdl.handle.net/11250/2771668Utgivelsesdato
2020Metadata
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Sammendrag
Immigration can be a controversial and divisive topic, especially during polarising times like the ones we live in. As a result, some lean towards alternative media outlets that better mirror their worldview. Studies on alternative media reveal that outlets can vary in their publishing style and ideology. Where some may have a more extreme approach, others aim to be seen as professional journalists. With a growing trend of alternative media outlets, right-wing media have particularly attracted attention with their critical views on immigration. Resett is an example of a controversial right-wing media outlet in Norway. This research project focuses on Resett’s content on a micro-level. In this study, I explore how much and what is written about immigration, as well as what kind of engagement immigration articles get on Facebook. I ask: How does a semi-professional right-wing outlet like Resett report on immigration? The study was performed using quantitative content analysis over five weeks in 2017, 2018 and 2019. In this thesis, I argue when it comes to immigration content, results indicate that Resett tends to write its content. In contrast, the study shows that Resett depends on news agencies and other resources for content about different topics, which can make the outlet more appealing to a broader audience. Its journalistic choices demonstrate a focus on national issues, significant use of unprofessional and secondary sources, and that anonymous authors write some of its most radical content. The results also show that Resett often shares immigration articles on Facebook, where the outlet also gets the most engagement.