Algerian print journalism in the context of the spiral of Silence theory: reinforcement or resistance?

Abstract

The Spiral of Silence theory is one of the first media theories that explains audience behavior, as it assumes a correlational relationship between the content and agendas disseminated by the media and the orientations of the masses. It is a dynamic process influenced by multiple social, cultural, and political factors... The Spiral of Silence theory also based on the premise that individuals tend to shape their opinions according to the prevailing public opinion. Consequently, public opinion forms in alignment with the ideas promoted by the media, leading to a unified mass public opinion.
On the other hand, those who oppose this opinion choose to remain silent to avoid group persecution and fear of social isolation. Thus, even if they hold beliefs contrary to those presented by the media and communication outlets, they suppress their personal views and refrain from participating in the discourse. Here, silence becomes an expression of rejection rather than acceptance, forming the latent public opinion.
This article examines the applicability of this theory in the Algerian context by analyzing current events and developments in the local sphere, particularly through Algerian print journalism. The findings reveal that Algerian newspapers were not uniform in their approach to public issues. Some official outlets played a clear role in reinforcing the spiral of silence through mechanisms of marginalization and selective amplification, contributing to a climate of self-censorship and reluctance to express dissenting views.