The Problem of Deheroization of the Image of a Terrorist in Mass Media Publications

Abstract

In the era of globalization, the problem of terrorism in all of its forms and aspects is one of the most important issues for the global society. This article reviewed the problem of deheroization of the image of a terrorist in modern mass media. Since the media today operate in a constantly updated digital space, the authors have tried to develop an algorithm of deheroization. In this regard, the sequence of creative operations is analyzed and presented, for a journalist or another subject of information activity is able to deprive a terrorist or a criminal group of a hero halo and any other aspects of solidarity with them. The theoretical and methodological basis of the research was scientific works devoted to the problems of counter-terrorism activities and the role of the mass media in its implementation. The empirical basis of the study was the thematic monitoring of 112 texts that covered the resonant terrorist acts of 2016–2021. Comparative analysis and secondary data analysis were used as well. Using concrete examples, it is proved that the algorithm of deheroization of the image of a terrorist, developed on the basis of legislative and ethical aspects of journalistic activity, should be characterized by discreteness, certainty, effectiveness, and should also contain some properties of the heuristic process. It is noted that the structural-thematic, socio-psychological, lexical and semantic characteristics of the broadcast texts both increase and remove their uncertainty, which ultimately determines the effectiveness of the media activity. The proposed recommendations, an analysis of techniques and methods of deheroization, can contribute not only to counter-terrorism activities, but also could be applicable in other information situations. The developed algorithm is useful for a wide range of journalists, media managers and students of creative study programs.