IMPACT OF ELECTRONIC MEDIA ON POLITICAL SOCIALIZATION IN PAKISTAN (2008-2018)

Abstract

This study aims at exploring the impact of electronic media on political socialization in Pakistan from 2008-18. It is also intended to figure out that how social media is playing role in incorporating a new social culture in Pakistan. The Musharraf period in Pakistan had a special interest in boom of the media as many channels were given license for broadcast. Electronic media in Pakistan suffered more than other groups in the ongoing battle for promoting the democracy as one but defining component of political socialization over the years in Pakistan. Electronic media particularly private channel and social media after 2000 are not only a source of information but and great support to democracy in Pakistan. In the backdrop, this study through qualitative approach highlights that how, despite of limited resources and security issues, media workers through reporting, analysis, debate-discussions and watch dog roles contributed to new socio-political culture in Pakistan. Further, this study focuses that where media performed better role in initiating change, opinion building, and betterment of society and social change, at the same time it has incorporated intolerant and aggressive socio-political culture in Pakistan. In this way, this study critically analyses the social responsibility of electronic media in Pakistan.