View source for Boykoff, M. T., & Boykoff, J. M. (2007). Climate change and journalistic norms: A case-study of US mass-media coverage.

Title: Climate change and journalistic norms: A case-study of US mass-media coverage Authors: Boykoff, M. T., & Boykoff, J. M. Year: 2007

In "Climate Change and Journalistic Norms: A Case-Study of US Mass-Media Coverage," Boykoff and Boykoff (2007) analyze the role of journalistic norms and practices in shaping media coverage of climate change in the United States. The authors argue that traditional media coverage can inadvertently contribute to public misunderstandings about climate change by perpetuating false balance or focusing on sensational aspects of the issue, rather than presenting the broader context and implications.

To support their argument, Boykoff and Boykoff examine the coverage of climate change in major US newspapers between 1988 and 2002. Their analysis reveals that journalistic norms, such as the pursuit of objectivity and the reliance on official sources, can lead to a distortion of the scientific consensus on climate change. For instance, the authors find that the practice of presenting "both sides" of the issue, even when one side represents a minority view, can create a false impression of scientific disagreement and contribute to public confusion.

Furthermore, the authors observe that media coverage often focuses on sensational aspects of climate change, such as extreme weather events or political controversies, at the expense of providing a comprehensive understanding of the issue and its long-term implications. This focus can lead to a fragmented and superficial understanding of climate change among the public.

In conclusion, Boykoff and Boykoff's (2007) article highlights the importance of critically examining the role of journalistic norms and practices in shaping media coverage of climate change. The findings suggest that addressing these issues is crucial for promoting a more accurate and nuanced public understanding of climate change and its implications.