Violence and crime as inhibitors of capabilities: the case of Palestinian-Israelis and Israeli mass media

ABSTRACT This study investigates how the media-portrayal of Palestinian-Israelis in the context of violence and crime, hinders Palestinian-Israelis’ abilities to realize their capabilities. Capabilities refer to what each individual is able to do or be representing their human freedom and wellbeing. The study presents a quantitative content-analysis of Palestinian-Israeli interviewees who appeared on all news and current affairs programs broadcast on the five Israeli networks during 2016–2017. Additionally, to better understand the implications of these mediated representations on individual’s capabilities, the study also includes semi-structured qualitative interviews with 20 Palestinian-Israeli individuals who consume these networks. Results suggest that essential capabilities for Palestinian-Israelis were typically hindered by the mass media, indicating the media did not fulfill their mission of advancing wellbeing.