Political dissent

Definition

Political dissent refers to the expression of disagreement or opposition to the policies, actions, or authority of a governing body or political system. This dissent can take many forms, such as protests, writings, or other acts of defiance aimed at influencing public opinion or promoting change. In the realm of journalism, particularly in new journalism, political dissent serves as a crucial element in investigating power dynamics and shedding light on societal issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Political dissent is often seen as a cornerstone of democracy, allowing for open debate and critique of those in power.
2. In new journalism, political dissent is frequently highlighted through narrative techniques that bring personal experiences and emotional truths into the reporting process.
3. Historical examples of political dissent include movements like the civil rights movement in the U.S., where activists used various forms of protest to challenge systemic racism and inequality.
4. Political dissent can face suppression through censorship, legal repercussions, or violence from authorities seeking to maintain control.
5. The rise of social media has transformed how political dissent is expressed and organized, providing platforms for widespread communication and mobilization.

Review Questions

• How does political dissent contribute to the democratic process and why is it essential in new journalism?
  • Political dissent plays a vital role in the democratic process by allowing citizens to voice their concerns and advocate for change. In new journalism, this dissent is essential as it provides a narrative that highlights individual experiences and societal issues, making stories more relatable and impactful. By documenting acts of dissent, journalists not only inform the public but also create a dialogue that can lead to accountability and reform.
• What are some methods through which political dissent is manifested in society, and how do these methods relate to the principles of new journalism?
  • Political dissent can manifest through various methods such as protests, written critiques, social media campaigns, and civil disobedience. These methods relate closely to new journalism principles as they emphasize storytelling that incorporates personal perspectives and emotional engagement. New journalism seeks to illuminate these dissenting voices by providing context and depth, which fosters a greater understanding of the underlying issues driving the dissent.
• Evaluate the impact of digital platforms on political dissent and its representation in new journalism.
  • Digital platforms have significantly reshaped political dissent by providing accessible channels for communication and organization. This accessibility allows marginalized voices to be heard more widely and facilitates grassroots movements that can challenge traditional power structures. In new journalism, these platforms influence how stories are reported by prioritizing immediacy and direct engagement with activists' narratives, thereby altering the landscape of media representation in contemporary socio-political contexts.

Related terms

Civil Disobedience: A form of protest where individuals deliberately disobey certain laws or commands of a government to demonstrate against unjust policies.

Freedom of Speech: The right to express one's opinions and ideas without fear of government retaliation or censorship, which is fundamental for political dissent.

Activism: The efforts taken by individuals or groups to promote, impede, or direct social, political, economic, or environmental change.