Development Grant Awarded for Research Idea on the Image as a Bearer of Truth
Researchers from the Department of Journalism, Media and Communication (JMG) at the University of Gothenburg have been granted project development support from Media & Democracy to develop a research project on how images can be used to strengthen democracy.
In an era where digital platforms are deluged with images, both authentic and manipulated, the question of the image's role as a bearer of truth is more complex than ever. Amanda Ramsälv, a PhD candidate at JMG and who will be a PhD after her defense in September 2025, together with Jenny Wiik, an Associate Professor at JMG, aim to explore this further.
In a planned research project, they intend to unite researchers, journalists, and technology developers to develop new methods and tools for handling the challenges of images in an era of disinformation and AI-driven manipulations. The research project will take a holistic approach to how images can be used to strengthen democracy and preserve citizens' trust in journalism, while simultaneously challenging and nuancing the perception of what constitutes truth.
The preliminary study, for which they have now been granted funding, aims to analyze and map the challenges and opportunities within journalism and image verification in a digital context. The goal is to develop a clear research agenda, identify relevant collaboration partners, and establish a foundation for further funding and the development of innovative solutions in this field. This preliminary study is the first phase of the envisioned longer research and innovation project.
"Jenny and I envision a vital and innovative endeavor where we finally get to sink our teeth into the complex and central theme of the image as a bearer of truth in journalism. We know that many different types of actors share this curiosity, and it will be incredibly interesting to see what a collaboration around this can lead to, benefiting the industry and society at large," says Amanda Ramsälv.
For an idea to be considered for project development support, there are several basic requirements, including that the idea must align with Media & Democracy's focus and that any future project must be carried out in collaboration with Media & Democracy.
"This is a highly topical and interesting project idea that connects to several central areas for Media & Democracy: journalism, media and information literacy, and disinformation, to name three quick examples. Furthermore, it addresses how AI is becoming an increasingly common and transformative factor for the image as we know it and its value," says Martin Holmberg, Program Manager for Media & Democracy.
Facts
- Previously, project development support was granted to Voice4You to develop a project idea on how schools and media can collaborate to strengthen young people's knowledge of media and news.
- Read more about the project development grant here.
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