Introduction

The Journal of Media Discourse and Society (MDS) is a peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to advancing critical and interdisciplinary research in the fields of media studies, communication, journalism, digital culture, and societal transformation.

In an age where media is reshaping public discourse, identity, politics, and social behavior, MDS provides a platform for scholars, practitioners, and researchers to explore the complex interplay between media narratives and the societies they inform and influence.

We welcome original theoretical and empirical contributions that interrogate the role of traditional and digital media in shaping ideologies, public opinion, policy, and everyday life. The journal also encourages innovative approaches to media discourse analysis, including studies rooted in sociology, political science, cultural studies, linguistics, and communication theory.

Scope of Journal

Media, Discourse and Society is a peer-reviewed, open-access academic journal published by the Department of Mass Communication at the Virtual University of Pakistan.

The journal serves as an interdisciplinary platform for critical scholarship in the fields of media, communication, and cultural studies, with a strong commitment to addressing contemporary societal issues through theoretical, empirical, and practice-based research.

The journal seeks to advance the understanding of the dynamic relationship between media and society in both local and global contexts. It particularly encourages scholarship that reflects the sociocultural realities of Pakistan, while remaining open to comparative and international perspectives.

The journal welcomes original research articles, theoretical contributions, case studies, and critical reviews that explore contemporary and classical themes in mass communication. Interdisciplinary research drawing from sociology, political science, cultural studies, psychology, gender studies, media technologies, and development communication is also encouraged.

Core Areas of Interest

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Digital Media, Society, and Culture
• Media Literacy and Disinformation
• Journalism Practices and Ethics
• Discourse Analysis in Media and Communication
• Representation and Identity
• Communication and Development
• Media Policy, Regulation, and Governance
• AI and Emerging Technologies in Media
• Film, Television, and Visual Culture
• Environmental Communication and Media
• Political Communication
• Advertising and Public Relations
• Science and Health Communication
• Risk and Crisis Communication
• Media Activism and Social Change

Journal's Aim

Media Discourse and Society (MDS) is a leading journal in the field of media and communication studies. We are dedicated to publishing cutting-edge research and pioneering thought on all facets of the discipline.

The journal serves as a vital forum for advancing scholarly debate by welcoming novel ideas, critical perspectives on existing work, and deep explorations that chart new directions for future inquiry.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Journal of Media Discourse and Society is to:

• Promote high-quality, peer-reviewed research that explores the dynamic relationship between media and society.

• Foster critical scholarship on media discourse, journalism practices, digital communication, and public engagement.

• Encourage interdisciplinary dialogue and global perspectives on the media's role in shaping contemporary social issues.

• Support emerging scholars and diverse voices in media research from across cultural and geographical contexts.

• Serve as a resource for academics, media professionals, policymakers, and educators seeking to understand and navigate the evolving media landscape.

Open Access Statement

This is an open-access journal which means that all content is freely available without charge to the user or their institution. Users are allowed to:

• Read, download, copy, distribute, print, search, or link to the full texts of the articles

• Use articles for any other lawful purpose without asking prior permission from the publisher or the author

All articles are available on the internet to all users immediately upon publication. Non-commercial and commercial use and distribution in any medium is permitted, provided the author and the journal are properly credited.

Journal of Media Discourse and Society
Department of Mass Communication | Virtual University of Pakistan