Social media algorithmic versus professional journalists’ news selection: Effects of gate keeping on traditional and social media news trust
Year: 2023
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Research has shown positive attitudes toward journalists and their roles foster pro-democratic outcomes. With the rise of social media as news sources, algorithms operate as gatekeepers, which may alter linkages between public opinion, journalists, and media trust. However, results from a panel-survey conducted in the U.S. underline citizens’ preference for journalist gatekeeping in fueling trust in traditional and social media news. Conversely, preference for algorithmic news selection does not affect people’s levels of trust. Furthermore, traditional news use moderates this relationship as those who report higher traditional news use and a preference for professional news gatekeeping trust traditional news the most. This study contributes to current discussions on the effects of preference for journalists’ or algorithmic news selection, arguing that evaluations of journalists’ editorial work remain critical to explain media trust.
Source: Journalism
Authors: Rebecca Scheffauer, Manuel Goyanes, Homero Gil de Zúñiga
Language: English
Subfield: Communication
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: Junta de Castilla y León
OpenAlex ID: W4379016540