The Diaoyu Island Conflicts

Jian Liu

English 403, Section 2

Spring 2013

Research Work

• Newspapers: the South China Morning Post

the New York Times

• Database: Proquest Newspapers

• Key Words: “the Diaoyu Islands”, “China”, “Japan”,

“Nationalize” and “Claim”

My Investigation

• The South China Morning Post focused more on

conflict coverage.

• The New York Times focused more on political

coverage.

What I Learned

The South China Morning Post:

• Focused on Conflict Coverage

Conflicts between the Chinese government and the Japanese government

Anti-Japanese movements

• Took sides with China

Played a role as the Chinese government’s agent

Reasons

• The South China Morning Post

Chinese readers hope to read more articles about anti-

Japanese movements.

Pressures from the Chinese government and Chinese

readers.

What I Learned

The New York Times :

• Focused on political Coverage

Reported objective facts happened after Japan’s purchase.

• Maintained a Neutral Position

Reasons

• The New York Times

American readers are more interested in political influence

of the event.

No pressures from the American government.

My Opinion

• A newspaper should report events in a fair and

subjective attitude.

• The New York Times’ articles are more valuable.

Thank you !