Abstract: This study investigates the complex dynamics of public discourse on Twitter/X concerning the transgender-related controversy surrounding the video game Hogwarts Legacy. Utilizing the theory of second and third-level agenda setting, this study explores the transitions of discourse topics and sentiments among different actors (i.e., news outlets, Twitter influencers, and ordinary Twitter users). A multi-methodological approach was employed in analyzing a total of 2,196 news articles and 63,205 tweets over a three-year period to understand these dynamics, revealing the significant influence of Twitter discourse in shaping public opinion and uncovers the nuanced influence of different actors in being agenda-setters. This study contributes to the broader understanding of how social media platforms in the digital age can both reflect and shape public agendas on socially and politically charged issues like transgender rights.
The paper will be presented at International Communication Association Conference, Gold Coast, Australia, 2024.
Co-authors: Yilan Guo, Junqi Fu, Nicole Hash, Chris Chao Su