Explains why and how local critical reporting can exist in China despite the kinds of media control that are the hallmarks of authoritarian rule.
Why and how does critical reporting persist at the local level in China despite state media control, a hallmark of authoritarian rule? Synthesizing ethnographic observation, interviews, survey and content analysis data, Convenient Criticism reveals evolving dynamics in local governance and the state-media relationship. Local critical reporting, though limited in scope, occurs because local leaders, motivated by political career advancement, use media criticism strategically to increase bureaucratic control, address citizen grievances, and improve governance. This new approach to governance enables the shaping of public opinion while, at the same time, disciplining subordinate bureaucrats. In this way, the party-state not only monopolizes propaganda but also expropriates criticism, which expands the notion of media control from the suppression of journalism to its manipulation. One positive consequence of these practices has been to invigorate television journalists’ unique brand of advocacy journalism.
Tabella dei contenuti
List of Illustrations
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. Convenient Criticism
2. Tangled Maneuvers
3. Political Edge
4. Keen Partner
5. Criticism and Correction
Conclusion
Appendix A: Ethnographic Observation and Interviews
Appendix B: Content Analysis and Variables
Notes
Works Cited
Index
Circa l’autore
Dan Chen is Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Richmond.
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