The Mass Media and the Theatrics of PoliticsLos Beck et al

The cultural dimensions of politics operate alongside other sources on which political actors are heavily dependent (such as money, public relations, access to the media, or access to government bureaucracy). Those who have greater access to media resources are able to perform more effective actions that attract political and social attention. Thus, the cultural dimensions of politics provide a window into those who are far from the center of power. These individuals and groups can develop cultural skills and apply them in the cultural environment. Today, the cultural dimensions of politics have become increasingly important, and media developments have eroded the distinction between public and private space. Turning political activists' private lives into personal issues has had a profound effect on their political fortunes. As a result, political actors skillfully organize political events in a dramatic way to increase their legitimate authority. In this respect, politics is like theater, and politics is increasingly theatrical, as the importance of the mass media grows.