Science journalism for development in the Global South: A systematic review of its characteristics, issues and challenges
Authors: Nguyen, A. and Tran, M.
Conference: Top Pappers in Global Communication and Social Change, 69th Annual Conference of the International Communication Association
Dates: 24-28 May 2019
Abstract:Based on a systematic review of 157 scholarly studies and other less academic literature between 2000 and 2017, this paper reflects on the state of journalism about science in developing countries, with a focus on how it is practised and might influence development causes of the Global South, as well as what issues and challenges. Seven themes emerge from our analysis; (a) heavy dependence on foreign sources, especially Western media; (b) low status of the science news beat; (c) uncritical reporting of science; (d) strong influences of non-science vested interests; (e) tight grips of politics on science journalism; and (f) the tense, ineffective relationship between science and journalism. In the process of doing so, we will explore the current state of research into these issues, identify what we have and have not known well, and suggest some directions for future research into science journalism in the Global South and its position in a globalised science and technology environment.
Note: This paper was selected as a Top Paper in Global Communication and Social Change at the 69th ICA Conference.
Source: Manual