Political Bias against Atheists: Talk Shows Targeting Arabic-Speaking Audiences

Atheism has stirred up controversy in the Arabic-speaking world since 2011 uprisings, when atheists there began appearing public. What role does Arabic mass media play modern politics of minorities such as atheists, given heated debates that it hosts on atheism? This question is important because perceptions frames influence behavior politicians and electorate—and, a result, laws affect minority groups atheists. article focuses Lebanon, where eight nine television channels are affiliated with funded by religious–political parties. It explores existence bias against televised Lebanese talk shows news reports (2010–2022). Our findings reveal significant (69% overall over 85% speaker prominence bias), promote communal religious practice exhibiting highest levels. Ultimately, our demonstrate television, most influential medium, likely affects public’s negative reflect decrease objectivity conflict-based media’s poor understanding or intentional disregard for crucial building fair, democratic society.