Towards a Democratic Public Sphere: A History of Radio FreeDom in Reunion

摘要

The history and present practices of talk station Radio FreeDom in the French Overseas Department of Reunion are explored in terms of their relevance to the concept of a democratic public sphere. The station uses a listener centered, call in format to aggregate rather than segment demographic groups and to offer non-hierarchical (lateral) communication among common people. The station's success in achieving ratings dominance and financial sustainability in a competitive market is presented, as well as discussion of the potential for similar practices to work elsewhere.