Work

Hidden, Yet Pervasive: Social Inequality in Journalism (Research)

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Social inequality is a defining feature of contemporary societies and a major driver of political polarization. In deeply mediatized contexts, journalism occupies a pivotal position: It shapes discourses on inequality while simultaneously being structured by unequal distributions of resources, power, and recognition. In this conceptual essay, we propose a taxonomy based on four inequality arenas— top-bottom , us-them , inside-outside , and today-tomorrow inequalities. These arenas intersect with three areas of study—inequality mediated by journalism, within journalism, and in journalism research. In so doing, we offer an analytical roadmap that highlights central tensions, persistent shortcomings, and potential future research priorities in the field.

Source: Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly

DOI: 10.1177/10776990261482091

Authors: Andreas A. Riedl, Thomas Hanitzsch, Thomas R. Schmidt, Nik Usher

Institutions: University of Augsburg, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, University of Vienna, University of San Diego

Language: English

Topic: News Media Framing and Political Communication

Subfield: Communication

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900

OpenAlex ID: W7225627792

FWCI:

Cites: 50

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