Online journalism : changing public mindset and political conflicts / Ziinine Abdesselam

Online journalism has a powerful influence in reshaping public's beliefs, thoughts, and perceptions. Public mindest change is a central factor that drives political mobilization and conflicts. In light of the Malaysian public power revolution (Bersih4 and 5 rallies 2015-2016), this study explores the role of online journalism in changing public mindset towards the regime and norms and its relationship to political turmoil and conflicts. To meet these research objectives, the researcher employs a set of questionnaires that evaluate local netizens' perceptions of government, besides an exploratory content analysis of online newspapers published to date, and several in depth interviews that analyze important views and perspectives. The results reveal that online journalism, particularly online independent journalism is becoming not only a popular medium of political communication but an influential arena for public brainwashing, mobilization, and political struggle. The new technology (online media) is creating a new generation with a different kind of thinking that clashes with conventional constitutions and norms. Its combination, revelations, portrayals, critical reports, and the spread of new ideologies and propagandas are reshaping and changing public mindset towards traditional mechanisms and norms. Those who often read online independent media news are found to become more political savvy, outspoken, yet racist, cynical and rebellious. Online journalism happens to be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it stimulates minds and changes beliefs, ideas, and perceptions, leading to general conflict with existing rules and authorities. On the other hand, it helps to create awareness, produce well-informed citizens with a growth mindset, and enforce democracy and freedom of expression, which paves the way towards democracy and development.