Catastrophic Politics
Author | : Lonna Rae Atkeson |
Publisher | : Cambridge University Press |
Total Pages | : 277 |
Release | : 2012-07-30 |
ISBN-10 | : 9781107021129 |
ISBN-13 | : 110702112X |
Rating | : 4/5 (29 Downloads) |
Book excerpt: Shocking moments in society create an extraordinary environment that permits political and opinion changes that are unlikely during times of normal politics. Strong emotions felt by the public during catastrophes - even if experienced only vicariously through media coverage - are a powerful motivator of public opinion and activism. By examining public opinion during one extraordinary event, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Lonna Rae Atkeson and Cherie D. Maestas show how media information interacts with emotion in shaping a wide range of political opinions about government and political leaders.