Illicit drugs and their users in the Polish daily press (2015-2016)

Abstract

Introduction: The goal of the study was to explore representations of illicit drugs (heroin, cocaine, amphetamine, marijuana) and their users in Polish newspapers. Material and methods: The texts published in four Polish nationwide newspapers between 1.09.2015 and 31.10.2016 were analysed. The critical discourse analysis method was used. Theoretical framework was provided by Foucault’s concept of power strategies (e.g. discipline, biopolitics, governmentality) linked with press discourses within the discursive-institu-tional compliance. Conclusions: Drugs are subject to various discourses according to which they acquire diverse meanings. Representatives of disciplinary power (police), biopower (politicians) and celebrities play the crucial role in affecting drug discourses. The media focusing on crime and negative problems enhance power discourses related to drug criminalisation.