ONLINE MEDIA IN THE CONTEXT OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION: PUBLIC OPINION AND ETHICAL FACTORS
Published 2026-10-04
Keywords
- online media,
- social networks,
- public opinion,
- media ethics,
- journalistic ethics
- information accuracy,
- privacy,
- professional independence,
- digital transformation ...More
How to Cite
Abstract
The article examines the influence of online media and social networks on the formation of public opinion from the perspective of media ethics in the context of digital transformation. The primary objective of the study is to identify the ethical issues arising in the dissemination of information through social networks, examine the perceptions of these issues among citizens, journalists, and journalism students, and assess the role of such principles as information accuracy, objectivity, privacy, respect for human dignity, and professional independence in shaping public opinion. The study employed online surveys, comparative analysis, and an examination of practical media cases. Surveys were conducted among 298 citizens, 424 journalists, and 805 journalism students. The findings indicate that citizens attach considerable importance to information objectivity, the protection of children's rights, privacy, and the reliability of information sources. Among journalists, ethical dilemmas were identified concerning the balance between public interest and source reliability, the use of visual materials, and editorial pressure. Among journalism students, professional independence, integrity, and freedom of expression emerged as priority professional values. The findings demonstrate that the formation of public opinion in the digital media environment is determined not only by technological capabilities but also by ethical and social factors.
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