Framing Han-Uyghur relations on YouTube

This study addresses the most salient issues surrounding the tensions between the Ethnic Han and Uyghur in the People's Republic of China from the perspective of the nonestablishment. Using YouTube.com as a source, this study analyzes the videos uploaded to that website as well as the commentary associated with the videos, both posted by everyday netizens. This study concludes that many of the issues traditional sources have found to be relevant are also prevalent on YouTube.com. Additionally, this study suggests that there is dissatisfaction among the Han on the way the Chinese government handles its ethnic policy, especially as it relates to the Uyghur. This study also addresses some of the methodological problems associated with using the Internet as a source and YouTube in particular. This study suggests that while attribution can be difficult, if not impossible to ascertain, this peculiarity of the Internet also allows for more open and honest discussion of difficult ethnic issues denied traditional sources. It was also concluded that YouTube has the potential to help refine and guide the utilization of traditional sources. This study hopes to have established that meaningful original research can be conducted on the Internet and on YouTube.com.