Mediated Messages
Religion and Internet Advertising: Similarities and Differences in the Perceptions of Religious Animists, Muslims and Christians about Entertainment Products View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Stover Eduardo Ezequias
This study comparatively examines the perception of the main predominant religions in Angola. Islam, Christianity and Animism were analysed. Based on the research objective, a mixed methodological approach was adopted. We analysed 305 responses from the surveys applied to religious people in four provinces of Angola, namely Luanda, Benguela, Huíla and Huambo, as these are the cities with the largest number of religious institutions. There were also 21 interviews with the leaders of the three religions under study and 4 focus groups with a number of participants ranging from 6 to 12 in each group. The ANOVA test showed that the means of the religious groups (Christian religion - Roman Catholic, Protestant, other Christian churches; Islamic religion and animist religion) are different. Therefore, there is a difference between the religious groups in the perception of advertising on the internet, particularly adverts on social media [F(7.297)=2.101; p< 0.05] and websites [F(5.297)=3.930; p< 0.001]. Perceptions varied according to religion, suggesting that religious groups do not all have equal averages. Multiple linear regression was used to check whether the degree of religiosity and the degree of spirituality of religious people are able to predict the degree of trust in the adverts available on the internet. The analysis resulted in a statistically non-significant model [F(2.302)=1.762;P>0.01;R²=0.012], i.e. the model is no better than chance. Degree of religiosity (β= -0.102;t=-1.563;P>0.01) and Degree of spirituality (β=-0.011;t=-0.167;P>0.01) are not predictors for the degree of trust in internet adverts.
Exploring Photography and Personal Spirituality: A Qualitative Approach View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Biona Maria Newton
The research paper explores the role of photography in expressing and constructing personal spirituality. Through qualitative analysis of interviews with eight Indian photographers, the study identifies five key themes that illuminate the intricate relationship between photographic practice and spiritual exploration. The findings reveal that photography serves as a powerful medium for constructing meaning, shaping identity, and contributing to cultural and spiritual capital. Participants describe how photography facilitates spiritual experiences, fosters connections with nature, and provides a means to articulate their spiritual journeys. The study expands on existing theories of social construction and visual sociology, while introducing the concept of spiritual capital. These insights offer valuable perspectives for art therapy, cultural studies, and religious studies, highlighting photography's potential to enhance personal growth and community cohesion. The research underscores the transformative power of photography in facilitating spiritual expression and identity formation in contemporary society.
