“WE USED TO BE QUEENS AND NOW WE ARE SLAVES”

Abstract

Following Pierre Bourdieu's theory of the social field, we examine how changes in the media have affected the career strategies, journalistic practice and role images of women and men working in Austrian news media. By employing Bourdieu's theory, information on role models and self-perception gathered by surveys can be interpreted within their proper contexts and give insight to the structure and constitution of contemporary Austrian journalism. Problems arising from the diversification of journalism and gender-related disparities in career opportunities become more accessible empirically. In addition, field theory sheds light on the ongoing changes of the field's properties, such as developments in the actual routines of news gathering and production. Finally, by applying Bourdieu's theory to journalism research one gains a deeper insight into the specific set of stakes that are shaping both the perception and practice within the journalistic field. In this context, we discuss the benefits and drawbacks in the profession as a part of the field's “illusio”, which still holds a strong attraction for newcomers.

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