Michelle A. Amazeen

Content Confusion explores how mainstream news media contribute to the spread of misleading information. This book reveals how news outlets often disguise paid advertisements as news articles, a practice known as "native advertising." Recent research shows that this type of advertising can influence both the perception and substance of real journalism.

Content Confusion delves into the origins and evolution of native advertising, its impact on audiences and the media industry, and the implications for a well-informed democracy. By understanding how news organizations contribute to this information pollution, readers can critically evaluate news content and consider appropriate governance measures for modern media systems.

For policymakers, Content Confusion highlights the principles of governmental regulation and industry codes that support clear identification of content sources. This issue is becoming even more complex with the rise of generative artificial intelligence. The book provides examples of domestic and international efforts to address the policies, practices, and regulation of brand-funded "news" content.

While there has always been tension between journalism, public relations, and advertising, the contemporary practice of native advertising is unique because news publishers themselves create these messages using their in-house agencies or "content studios." This allocation of resources, including journalists, to create such content can contradict their own reporting and damage the credibility of their journalism.

Content Confusion traces the evolving relationship between the advertising and public relations industries and the press, and how historical and regulatory efforts relate to today's commercial placements.

Co-edited with John A. Lent, this book offers personal anecdotes and candid reflections on the lives and work of prominent critical scholars, along with their insights into the future of the field. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students of communication, media studies, political economy, political science, and those interested in critical theoretical approaches.