Sociology & Criminology for a Changing World
The influence of mass media in shaping public opinion and perceptions of guilt before or during legal proceedings.
Trial by media occurs when news outlets or online platforms sensationalise cases, creating public pressure that can affect defendants’ reputations, judicial processes, or jury impartiality. It reflects how punishment can be enacted informally, through stigma and public judgement, even without conviction.
Labelling theory, media criminology, Goffman’s work on stigma.
SozTheo is a personal academic project by Prof. Dr. Christian Wickert.
The content does not reflect the official views or curricula of HSPV NRW.
SozTheo.com offers clear, accessible introductions to sociology and criminology. Covering key theories, classic works, and essential concepts, it is designed for students, educators, and anyone curious about social science and crime. Discover easy-to-understand explanations and critical perspectives on the social world.
Looking for the German version? Visit soztheo.de