Abstract

The research about Egyptians’ perception of the Shias and the role of media is very significant, especially at this time, due to the sensitivity of its broader impact on the Muslim world. Media, as one of the most important tools of communication, has always played a significant role in the mediation of religion through various channels. The researcher has not found pervious research about this topic and thus hopes to establish a foundation for further study of similar work. The study shows that media in Egypt may have played a great role in creating a negative image of the Shias and could have an even more important role in correcting it. The study shows that the Egyptian population has certain negative view of the Shias which may have been cultivated, mainly through the media and, to a lower extent, through word of mouth and various publications as well. The problem lies in the core misunderstandings of the Egyptians about the Shias belief referring to the belief of a rare Shia sect, the Ghurabiyya, which may no longer exist, but their view is generalized to all Shias. They believe that Ali should have been the Prophet instead of Mohammad. The survey indicates that Egyptians’ general knowledge of the Shias belief is low and there is a more negative perception of this sect than positive, notwithstanding, Egyptians’ view Shia Iran’s President Ahmadinejad, as a hero and highly esteem him as one of the most unique leaders of the Islamic world. Similar views are held about Hasan Nasrullah, the Shia leader of Hezbullah in Lebanon based on his perceived victory in the war with Israel in July of 2007. The researcher has recommended more media active role in improving the rapprochement process as well as government’s attitude by lifting media and dialogue restrictions.

Department

Journalism & Mass Communication Department

Degree Name

MA in Journalism & Mass Communication

Date of Award

2-1-2008

Online Submission Date

2-13-2013

First Advisor

Saleh, Ibrahim

Committee Member 1

Saleh, Ibrahim

Document Type

Thesis

Extent

151 p.

Rights

The author retains all rights with regard to copyright.

The American University in Cairo grants authors of theses and dissertations a maximum embargo period of two years from the date of submission, upon request. After the embargo elapses, these documents are made available publicly. If you are the author of this thesis or dissertation, and would like to request an exceptional extension of the embargo period, please write to thesisadmin@aucegypt.edu.

IRB

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