The Social Reaction to the Image of the Legal Community Presented in the Para-Documentary “Caste”

Abstract

The article is of a scientific and research nature. It addresses the problem of social reaction to the image of the legal community, which was presented in the para-documentary titled Caste (in Polish: Kasta). The series aroused social emotions, was noticed by viewers and caused many comments, which is worth investigating. The main thesis of the study is based on the assumption that the television broadcast could have influenced the strengthening of the negative image of lawyers in Polish society, which can be examined by analyzing the comments of Internet users posted online, including social media. Based on the analysis carried out on specific research material – the comments from Internet users, it turned out that the supporters of the para-documentary, convinced that it presents a true picture of the Polish justice system, showed a higher level of social emotions than its opponents. There were few comments directly defending members of legal professionals. The form and manner of communication were criticized more than the general negative image of the Polish judiciary. Although the conducted qualitative research covers one country, it shows the general reaction of ordinary people to the image of the legal professionals presented in a specific television production, which has become an inspiration for a debate on the Internet focusing on the condition of the Polish justice system.