Feldman, L., Hart, P. S., & Milosevic, T. (2017). Polarizing news? Representations of threat and efficacy in leading US newspapers' coverage of climate change.

Title: Polarizing news? Representations of threat and efficacy in leading US newspapers' coverage of climate change Authors: Feldman, L., Hart, P. S., & Milosevic, T. Year: 2017

Summary: In this article, Feldman, Hart, and Milosevic (2017) examine the coverage of climate change in leading US newspapers and assess how representations of threat and efficacy may contribute to the polarization of public opinion on the issue. The authors analyzed articles from four major newspapers: The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and USA Today, between 2001 and 2014.

The study specifically focused on how the newspapers portrayed the threats posed by climate change (i.e., the severity and immediacy of the problem) and the efficacy of potential solutions (i.e., the ability of individuals, organizations, and governments to take effective action). These factors are important because they can influence public perceptions of climate change and shape the level of support for mitigation and adaptation efforts.

The authors found that the newspapers' coverage of climate change varied in terms of threat and efficacy representations. While some articles emphasized the risks and urgency of the issue, others downplayed the severity or questioned the scientific consensus. Similarly, the coverage of potential solutions ranged from highlighting the effectiveness of various strategies to expressing doubts about their feasibility or impacts.

The analysis revealed that the different portrayals of threat and efficacy were associated with the newspapers' editorial stances on climate change. Newspapers that generally supported climate action tended to emphasize the threats posed by climate change and the efficacy of potential solutions, while those with more skeptical editorial positions were more likely to downplay the risks and question the effectiveness of mitigation and adaptation measures.

Feldman, Hart, and Milosevic (2017) argue that these varying representations of threat and efficacy in the news media may contribute to the polarization of public opinion on climate change. When people are exposed to conflicting messages about the severity of the issue and the potential for meaningful action, it can lead to confusion, skepticism, and reduced support for climate policies.

In conclusion, the authors emphasize the importance of balanced and accurate media coverage of climate change, which can help foster a more informed and nuanced public debate on the issue. By providing consistent and reliable information on the threats posed by climate change and the efficacy of potential solutions, the media can play a critical role in shaping public perceptions and support for climate action.