A Voice without Paper and Ether

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52340/splogos.2026.01.13

Keywords:

Traditional media, digital transformation, psycho-social state, media narratives, psychological distress

Abstract

This article explores the processes of transformation and marginalization of traditional media (newspapers and radio) within the context of the modern digital ecosystem. The work aims to analyze the impact of changes in media platforms on the psycho-social well-being of society, particularly during emergencies.

A quantitative survey conducted as part of doctoral research at the Georgian Technical University reveals the following: 0% of respondents use print media, while only up to 3% turn to the radio for information. The absolute majority of the audience is concentrated on internet platforms.

The research confirmed the hypothesis that emotional narratives focused on shock and trauma in the digital space significantly increase psychological distress, anxiety, and social apathy among the population. The article argues that the weakening of traditional, rational information filters amidst the economic crisis of the media market poses a direct threat to the mental resilience of society.

In conclusion, strategies for increasing media responsibility and media literacy are proposed to mitigate negative influences during crisis periods.

 

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Author Biographies

Tamar Dolaberidze, Georgian Technical University

PhD Student in International Relations

Rusudan Lortqifanidze, Georgian Technical University

Associate Professor

References

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CRRC Georgia. Caucasus Barometer 2022 Georgia. Tbilisi, 2022. [Online resource].

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Jenkins, Henry. Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide. New York: New York University Press, 2006.

McChesney, Robert W. Digital Disconnect: How Capitalism Is Turning the Internet Against Democracy. New York: New York Press, 2013.

National Democratic Institute (NDI). Public Opinion in Georgia, March 2023. Tbilisi: CRRC Georgia, 2023.

Newman, Nic, et al. Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2023. Oxford: Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism, 2023.

Pavlik, John V. Journalism and New Media. New York: Columbia University Press, 2001.

Shoemaker, Pamela J. and Tim P. Vos. Gatekeeping Theory. New York: Routledge, 2009.

Published

2026-05-22

How to Cite

Dolaberidze, T., & Lortqifanidze, R. (2026). A Voice without Paper and Ether. SOCIOPOLITOLOGOS, 1, 183–197. https://doi.org/10.52340/splogos.2026.01.13

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Section

Articles

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