Social Constructionism of Responsibility

A Consideration on theAttribution of Responsibility in Mass Media Discourse

Abstract

The attribution of responsibility is a daily sight in the mass media and one

of the roles expected of journalism. While reporting on responsibility is perceived

as a routine event, this paper considers the next issue: the plurality of

“responsibility” in the mass media. If the attribution of responsibility is determined

by certain rules, then the same result should always be achieved. However,

more than one “responsibility” may be presented for a particular agenda

that is controversial.

　　The paper focuses on the plurality of “responsibilities” and conducts a theoretical

research of epistemology and methodology. The paper begins with

Shanto Iyengar’s work on the attribution of responsibility and identifies the

problems with this research. Next, the paper discusses the attribution theory

developed by Fritz Haider in social psychology to which Iyengar referred.

Finally, in order to shift the perspective away from attribution theory, the

paper argue for the need to interpret the plurality of “responsibility” in a social

constructionism way. The paper will explore specific methodologies from this

position; for example, rhetorical analysis and framing analysis.

　　As a result, the attribution of responsibility in the mass media is not simply

determined by existing social norms and legal systems, but rather is a defining

movement of responsibility that is constructed through various interactions. In

the defining movement of responsibility, the process of justifying specific attributions

of responsibility is an important subject of research. In terms of influencing

the attitudes of the audience, both rhetorical and framing analyses need

to be conducted at the same time.