ISFiT: Controlling the Narrative

In a time of political turmoil, the continuous stream of information accessible to us via the media is a source of both inspiration and education on global issues facing the world. However, it may also have other implications and effects that must be taken into consideration. In our age of technology, anyone can access information instantly from whatever source they desire. But if the way that information is presented to us is with an agenda, how can this affect us as a society?

This plenary session aims to increase our understanding of how knowledge is presented and the media’s ethical role in the spread of information which affects us as individuals and society as a whole. This includes, but is not limited to, misrepresented information or fake news, use of censorship, rhetorical devices and algorithms which mutually affects the type of information that we access. We want to explore the possibilities, challenges and potential related to the fact that we are now living in a more connected world wherein our values, thought patterns and social circles are deeper integrated in our political and social identities than ever before. Most importantly, we wish to explore how good people are potentially divided and polarized by the narratives to which we are exposed.

Joining us to discuss this are:

Jenny Westrum-Rein
Jenny Westrum-Rein is a journalist currently working for Nidaros, she is the former editor of Under Dusken, and is experienced in both moderating and partaking in political debates. As a journalist and former editor Jenny can give valuable insight to the responsibilities and considerations both media platforms as establishments and journalists as individuals have to take into account when choosing and presenting knowledge to their readers.

Stefan Geiss
Stefan Geiss is an associate professor of sociology and political science at NTNU, and has his research focus on agenda and frame setting, opinion formation and seeking information as well as decision-making in journalism. As an associate professor, Stefan has many years of experience within the area of when media affects the public and can give us an insight into the mechanism behind the relation between the media, society and individuals.

Kjersti Løken Stavrum
Kjersti Løken Stavrum holds a degree in political science. She began her career working as a journalist at Aftenposten. She is the CEO of the Tinius Trust, the largest stakeholder in Schibsted media group. Previously, she held the position of general secretary of the Norwegian Press Association. In 2020 she was announced as the leader of Ytringsfrihetskommisjonen, by the Norwegian government.

Moderator: Inga Mageli
Inga Mageli is a clinical psychology student at NTNU and the former theme coordinator at the Board of Studentersamfundet in Trondheim and Head of Plenary Sessions at ISFiT 2019.