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Abstract

This dissertation will offer an exploration into the role of social media as a platform for racism in English football communities. By utilising theoretical analysis, with particular reference to Clay Shirky’s theories on audience behaviours, I observe social media as a space capable of promoting open communication in the form of topical discourse and its consequent potential for harbouring racism. English football has faced criticism for the way in which racism is handled, despite the globalisation of the game and an increasingly diverse cohort of players. The social media boom has been responsible for changes in the way we interact and the same can be said for how racism manifests. The complexities of social media have opened debates surrounding freedom of speech and online anonymity, particularly in the political sphere. This dissertation analyses arguments for and against these topics and how monitoring of online discourse can prove difficult for anti-racism organisations in football. I will also look at examples of dialogue on social media to understand fan perception of these organisations in addition to any criticisms in academic literature. Further issues pertaining to police involvement both online and at stadiums will be explored in the penultimate chapters with a final section dedicated to discussing potential correlations with immigration and the framing of migrants in the British press.

Course: Media Studies - BA (Hons) - C1346

Date Deposited: 2024-08-08

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14437.html