The Internet, Freedom of Expression and Online Readers’ Attention to and Utilization of Online Newspapers’ Comment Sections

There is speculation that the exposure of the contents of online newspapers satisfies readers’ need for information and slows down the drive for the print versions. This study examined readers’ motivations towards reading online newspapers and whether they commented after reading. The study employed descriptive survey method in which questionnaire was administered to a randomly selected sample of 400 online newspaper readers. The findings demonstrated a high overall motivation level of the readers towards reading online version of newspapers. A further analysis of the findings revealed that readers were motivated to read online versions of newspapers because they had access to the internet. Also, readers were motivated to read online versions of newspapers because theyare interactive and provided timely updates. The study concluded that online newspapers were gaining popularity in the newspaper industry. Therefore, newspaper publishers should strategize ways to fully regulate and moderate online discussions on online newspapers’ comment sections. Keyword : Internet, freedom of expression, online readers, newspaper comment section DOI : 10.7176/NMMC/81-07 Publication date :June 30 th 2019