Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Manship School of Mass Communication

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the complex experiences and perceptions of antisemitism among Louisiana Jewish individuals, particularly within online digital contexts. Employing a mixed-methodological approach that combines qualitative interviews and quantitative content analysis, this study investigates how Louisiana Jewish individuals experience antisemitism and their perceptions of significant media events that shape such experiences. Drawing on tenants of Social Identity Theory (SIT) and Intersectionality, this work aims to understand the nuanced ways in which Jewish identity is negotiated and maintained in light of antisemitic media events. While the qualitative component of this study provides insight into the personal narratives and salient contemporary media events that shape participants’ perceptions, the quantitative piece analyzes the nature of the content surrounding such media events. Findings reveal the nuanced ways in which Jewish identity is defined and constantly negotiated. In addition, results illustrate the ways in which discourse shifts surrounding different media events, revealing the significant impact of entertainment-based media events in instigating antisemitism, anti-Zionism, and historical references to antisemitism. This research contributes to the wider literature that explores hate speech and social prejudice, offering a nuanced perspective of the mechanisms through which online environments influence antisemitic sentiments.

Date

7-12-2024

Committee Chair

Grimm, Joshua

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Available for download on Friday, July 11, 2031

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