Media Creation
Exploring and supporting the evolving world of news and public interest media.
About the Shorenstein Center
Every public policy issue is influenced by the quality and flows of media and information. The Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy is a Harvard Kennedy School research center dedicated to examining how media is created, distributed and consumed – and its impacts on society. We believe that improving the health of the information environment will support stronger, more resilient societies.
The center was founded in 1986 to allow journalists to engage with public policy students and faculty at Harvard Kennedy School. In the past two decades it has expanded its mission to advance research across multiple disciplines into the forces that shape our broader information environment. We study both the supply of critical information, and the demand for it, as audiences seek out new voices and vectors for the content they seek.
The Shorenstein Center pursues its mission through original research, convening leaders in practice and scholarship, providing trainings for students and media practitioners, and highlighting excellence in the fields of media and content production.
Focus Areas
Information Distribution
Investigating how news and information travel across platforms, technologies, and audiences.
News Consumption & Engagement
Understanding how people behave in a rapidly changing information landscape.
Policy & Impact
Exploring how media and policy shape each other—and their impact on civic life, public discourse, and democracy.
Learn More About Our History
History
The Shorenstein Center’s roots can be traced back to the early days of the John F. Kennedy School of Government. The Kennedy School has been singular in declaring its mission to be teaching and research plus engagement with the real world, something that sets it apart. Early on, leaders at the School recognized that engagement with the press should be part of the School’s focus, and the Shorenstein Center has grown from there to increase understanding and engagement with the entire ecosystem of media and information that is essential for healthy societies.
Learn More About Our History
Meet Our Team
Faculty, Staff & Fellows
The Center’s affiliated and resident faculty members, staff, fellows, and students, lead and execute the Center’s research mission.
Meet Our Team
Meet Our Advisory Board
Advisory Board
The Center’s Advisory Board includes prominent leaders in media, academia, policy, and practice.
Meet Our Advisory Board
Support This Work
The Shorenstein Center’s work is entirely funded by generous donations and grants. Your support can help build a better information landscape.