Event overview
07951021808
2024 marks a year of multiple general elections across the globe from the UK to the US, from India and South Africa to Russia. The media in all its forms will play a crucial role in how these elections pan out: directing our gaze, highlighting issues, moving us to vote. In this panel discussion, two leading scholars consider the critical issues of war, right-wing populism and affect and how they relate to the mediation of election periods. Come and join us for a crucial debate on our 'democratic' futures.
The Catastrophic War on Gaza and Democracy “at Home”
Paula Chakravartty, New York University
In the context of a year of national elections in both India and the US and reflecting on W.E.B Du Bois’ theoretical insights on “democratic despotism” and the “global color line,” this paper examines how the dehumanizing media coverage of the total war on Gaza has material implications for democratic futures in both countries.
Affect and Elections: gut feelings and the rise of right-wing populist politics on social media
Kaarina Nikunen, University of Tampere
This talk discusses the ways in which right-wing populism has been able to make use of social media platforms – their logistical aspects as well as affective dimensions – in gaining support across Europe. It focuses on affective practices and ‘gut feelings’ that have become increasingly central in politics, particularly during election periods, justifying political views and decisions as ‘authentic and just’. The talk explores how circulation of affective practices on the interstitial spaces of social media has provided ways to by-pass mainstream media, agitate supporters and use algorithmic structures to disturb and confuse the dynamics of public discussion - to question the former institutional, social and cultural practices of truth-making.
Dates & times
| Date | Time | Add to calendar |
|---|---|---|
| 23 May 2024 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
Accessibility
If you are attending an event and need the College to help with any mobility requirements you may have, please contact the event organiser in advance to ensure we can accommodate your needs.
