Changing the narrative: alternative media bias and its ties to political economy

Abstract

Alternative media is a term that refers to forms of media that provide audiences with content that is different from the mainstream. The mainstream media tends to present a single perspective on stories based on the political agendas and ideologies of those in power, whereas alternative media covers a story from different angles. However, the exact meaning of alternative media is debatable, and media literacy is challenged by outlets using the term differently. During the

events of October 17 in Lebanon, young people started relying heavily on alternative media to get information due to the deterioration of the Lebanese political situation. Alternative media played a role in creating awareness where mainstream media failed. However, there is a lack of research on the political economy of Lebanese alternative media. This study aims to explore the difference between alternative media and independent media, to provide an understanding of the political economy of Lebanese alternative media outlets such as 961 News, Daraj Media, Raseef22, Megaphone, and The Public Source, and to analyze how the funding shapes their coverage of news.