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

February 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 author certifies that written permission from the owner(s) of third-party copyrighted matter included in the thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study has been obtained. The author further certifies that IRB approval has been obtained for this thesis, or that IRB approval is not necessary for this thesis. Insofar as this thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study is an educational record as defined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 USC 1232g), the author has granted consent to disclosure of it to anyone who requests a copy. The author has granted the American University in Cairo or its agents a non-exclusive license to archive this thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study, and to make it accessible, in whole or in part, in all forms of media, now or hereafter known.

IRB

Not necessary for this item

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