Media modeling of the image of Islam in the public consciousness: overcoming communication barriers and stereotypes
https://doi.org/10.21453/2311-3065-2026-14-2-118-125
Abstract
This article analyzes the communicative mechanisms used by media to model the image of Islam in Russian public consciousness. Drawing on a systems approach to communication developed by F.I. Sharkov, the media landscape is viewed as a hierarchically organized system within which stable perceptions of religious communities are constructed. It is shown that the dominance of the problem-conflict agenda and the reduction of Islamic topics to security topics contribute to the formation of negative stereotypes and the strengthening of communication barriers between Muslim and non-Muslim segments of society. A content analysis of federal and regional media, specialized Muslim publications, and online resources reveals key stereotypical frameworks for representing Islam and the levels of communication barriers – cognitive, axiological and institutional. Communication strategies for overcoming stereotypes are proposed, including expanding dialogue-based forms of interaction, strengthening the agency of Muslim organizations in the media, and developing educational media initiatives. It is concluded that ethically oriented management of media communications in a multi-confessional society is a necessary condition for the formation of an integrative image of Islam in the public consciousness and the prevention of socio-political radicalization.
About the Author
S. M. Aliev
Dagestan Humanitarian Institute
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Aliev Shamil Mikailovich – senior lecturer
367000, Republic of Dagestan, Makhachkala, ul. Dakhadayeva, PhD. 136.
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Review
For citations:
Aliev S.M. Media modeling of the image of Islam in the public consciousness: overcoming communication barriers and stereotypes. Communicology. 2026;14(2):118-125. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.21453/2311-3065-2026-14-2-118-125
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