Graduation Year

2024

Document Type

Campus Only Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Politics and International Relations

Reader 1

Owen Brown

Reader 2

Sumita Pahwa

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2024 Anna K Jiricko

Abstract

This thesis examines the ideological representation within student newspapers covering pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli campus protests regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Through a content analysis of headlines and article language across ten universities with significant protest activity, the research investigates whether ideological prioritization is present. Specifically, it addresses whether student journalists disproportionately frame or emphasize one perspective over the other, reflecting a broader speech climate on college campuses.

Results indicate that while the majority of student newspaper coverage demonstrated neutrality and proportional representation, a small number of articles displayed subtle bias against pro-Israel perspectives. This was observed primarily through agenda bias—defined as the omission or minimization of particular viewpoints rather than outright misrepresentation. Headlines, quotes, and framing choices occasionally prioritized pro-Palestinian narratives, potentially influenced by larger media trends, editorial decisions, or university demographics.This study highlights the need for universities to promote environments conducive to open dialogue, critical thinking, and the representation of diverse ideologies, aligning with their mission to expand students’ worldviews and prepare them for informed civic engagement.

This thesis is restricted to the Claremont Colleges current faculty, students, and staff.

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