Page 220 - Feasibility Study of New Media Technology on Constructing Online Public Sphere

Feasibility Study of New Media Technology
on Constructing Online Public Sphere

Figure 51. Perceptions on the victims of the Yihuang incident.
Some 45% of the respondents indicated that they were sceptical about the Zhong
sisters’ behaviour regarding the ‘live broadcast’ on Weibo (Figure 52). The doubt is

that there may be a great chance of ‘media hype’ that intentionally stirs the contention
on Weibo through the so-called ‘live broadcast’. Figure 52 and Figure 53 demonstrate
a variety of feelings and perceptions that the public have when confronting a social

event. It is natural and normal, as these people come from different backgrounds with a
wide range of competence in judging a social event.
As for the media side, Interviewee 2 hold the opinion that, it is gratifying to see
different standpoints and views in the discussions of a social event on Weibo. Because
it shows the wide involvement of the public, not merely expressing critics toward the

government, but also rational judgement.
‘What the public wish for is very simple. They hope the exposure of a social event
on the internet can help solve the problem. They want their voice to be heard by

higher authorities. It is similar to make an online petition or appealing for help on
behalf of others. Because voices on the internet often have audiences and support-
ers’ (Interviewee 6) .
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56 Translation provided by the author.

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