Hastings College senior Elizabeth Miller showcased her senior capstone project at the 82nd Annual Midwest Political Science Association (MPSA) Conference held earlier this month in Chicago, Illinois. The MPSA Conference is one of the largest gatherings in the political science field, attracting more than 4,500 participants from more than 65 countries to discuss cutting-edge research and developments.
Miller, who is from Arlington, Kansas, said her research examined how different forms of media consumption – television and internet use – influence satisfaction with the government in Hungary, Turkey and Russia, where media control serves as a tool of political influence.
Her findings revealed that in authoritarian contexts, increased television consumption correlates with higher support for governments due to state-controlled narratives. Conversely, greater internet use correlates with lower government favorability as individuals access alternative viewpoints online.
Both media types positively influenced government support in free nations.
Miller said her work contributes valuable insights into how authoritarian regimes leverage media while highlighting the potential of digital platforms to challenge state narratives.
“Understanding these dynamics is crucial for grasping the complex interplay between media, politics and public opinion in diverse political environments,” she said.
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