Considering the relationship between mass media, public opinion, and identity in Arab populations, Professor Peart argues that we should be cautious about thinking of media as omnipotent, and instead we should seek a more contextual framework that positions media within the cultures that produce it. Doing so opens up more meaningful dialogue that avoids universalizing “audience” reception of media communication and, thus, representation of Arab identity. Peart’s remarks were presented at the “Intellectual Freedom and the Middle East” colloquium hosted by Roger Williams University in April 2008. Continue reading