The Representation Of Obama In Media

This thesis sampled the articles about Obama from TIME, then to discuss the character report strategies of TIME. Moreover, the further intention of this thesis is to research the relationship between media and political figures. Even the focus of this thesis is targeting at the reports in Western media, the hidden intention is to provide some references for the development of character report in China. It is widely recognized that TIME is a high—quality media special at character report, researching its methods of reporting can broaden horizon in of character report at home.During the process of study, it is a surprising finding that the presentation of Obama on TIME showed clear attitude and sensation. Facts are the forever line of news reporting, but the outstanding features of TIME are views and points, even sensational preference. Accordingly the imagines of Obama are variable and rich. Especially the imaginations in2008and that in2012are sharply contrasted. Obama seemed a hero in2008on these reports of TIME, but such imagines are strongly questioned in2012. The overall tone of reporting has changed—from positive to negative, but both tones focused on the abilities of administrating of Obama. By analyzing, this thesis hold a opinion that behind such changes there is a eternal faith of TIME—focus on events.Commenting is the feature of TIME, which is the start point of all reports. So this thesis point at the methods of commenting in the level of micro writing skills and macro principle. Direct quotation is an important method in reporting, and the macro principle of commenting is the performance of people in the events he has involved. The central consideration of judging people is the abilities he showed in solving problems. However, the layer of morals judgment is relatively less considered.Based on the above researches, this thesis states the relationship between media and political figures. Both of them are intimately mutual depended, political figures need media to broadcast information and they need media’s supporting when governing and administrating. However, political figures are the important information sources of media, which providing rich materials. But on the stand of media, there should be certain distance from political figures. Intimation is a dangerous signal for both of them. Political may become a entertainment source for public, or media may become a tool for political figures to fulfill personal needs. Such situations are contrast to the pursuits of news and will impede the democracy of society.It is a reforming era for China news groups, the system of news establishment and the idea of reporting are facing severe challenge. Researching on foreign media can provide some references and examples for Chinese media.