Examining differential gains from mass media in Japan

"The purpose of this study is to examine the differential gains model from mass media in Japan, with a consideration of its political context. More specifically, using survey data from the Japanese General Social Survey (JGSS) 2003, this study assesses whether political discussion moderates the relationship between hard-news use and two forms of participatory behavior, general participation and voting. Japan serves as an interesting case. Despite its long history of democracy, Japanese political behavior and attitudes are static and passive compared to other democratic societies [...] . This study will contribute to existing knowledge by assessing whether, in such a static and passive political culture, political discussion serves to facilitate political learning from mass media and ultimately encourage citizens' political participation." [Information des Anbieters]