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Types and purpose of mass media - Coggle Diagram
Types and purpose of mass media
Characteristics of mass media
Distance- one way flow of information
Technology- means by which info is transmitted e.g. tv
State- reaches large audiences
Commodity- designed with money in mind.
Dutton et al 1990
Types of media
Broadcast media- traditional audio and visual component to transmit info. e.g. radio, tv.
Digital media- New forms of media that rely on up to date technology. Relies on digital forms of communication. e.g. phone, laptop.
Print media- physical interaction with media. More tactile experience. e.g. newspaper, magazine
Purpose of mass media
To educate- provides a wealth of information in various forms, giving us the opportunity to learn.
To influence- exposed to a range of views that can shape our opinions. guides our consumer habits if we see culture.
To entertain- escapism from real life as the media allows us to immerse ourselves fully in something else.
Perspectives on the purpose of mass media:
Conflict views- the media is controlled by corporations and the ruling class to satisfy their own agendas
Conduit for social coersion- media manipulates us into believing ideas that benefit the ruling class.
Agent of social control- media instils beliefs that force us to support the ruling class.
Maintaining social inequality- focus on consumerism. buying things we cannot afford= exploitation.
Interactionist perspective- the media helps to shape our understanding of reality.
Symbols- provides us with human interactions in a range of situations to model our behaviour on.
Sharing interaction- experiencing a range of cultures and contexts so we know to react.
Sharing social values- Safe space to learn and understand human interaction.
Postmodernists- the media creates a false reality which can become true.
Simulacra- blurs the line between real and fake made worse by spread of fake news.
Hyperreality- media fabricates the truth to the extent that we cannot be sure.
Functionalists- the media is an essential part of helping to maintain social cohesion.
Agent of secondary socialisation- reinforces norms and values learnt in the family.
Agent of social control- clearly shows right and wrong. people monitor their behaviour as the know the repercussions.
Catharsis- safe space to express emotions.