To frame or not to frame?: that is the question explaining the impact of media on social intolerance in Russian federation

Official URL: http://risc01.sabanciuniv.edu/record=b1558730 (Table of Contents)

This thesis examines the role of media-resources and the framing of the Chechen conflict by media on the social intolerance and xenophobic tendencies in Russian Federation in the context of two phases of Chechen armed conflict: 1st Chechen conflict (1994-1996) and 2nd Chechen conflict (1999-2009). This thesis predicts that different ways in which 1st Chechen conflict and 2nd Chechen conflict was framed in public discourse and communicated via media has had different impact on social tolerance in Russian society. It was found that the framing of the 2nd Chechen conflict magnifies “threat” emanating from separatist forces of Chechen rebels and introduces discriminatory rhetoric, which in turn leads to increased intolerance and xenophobia in the society towards minority ethnic group (i.e. Chechens). The study is based upon comparative-case study implemented by experimental methodology. Thus, the main goal of this research is to illuminate and to understand the role of media in conflict and its impact on social tolerance in general.