Mass media refers to the forms of media that reach large audiences through mass communication. It encompasses a wide range of channels including broadcast media, digital media, print media, social media, streaming media, advertising, and events.

What are the primary components of mass media as outlined in the text?

The text identifies broadcast media, digital media, print media, social media, streaming media, advertising, and events as the core components of mass media.

Which academic disciplines study the influence of mass media?

The influence of mass media is analyzed from multiple academic perspectives, including anthropology, economics, history, law, philosophy, psychology, and sociology.

How was mass media classified in the late 20th century, and how did digital technology impact this classification?

In the late 20th century, mass media was typically categorized into eight industries: books, the Internet, magazines, movies, newspapers, radio, recordings, and television. However, the rapid advancement of digital communication technology in the late 20th and early 21st centuries led to a revised classification, often referred to as the 'seven mass media'.

What are the seven categories of mass media identified in the text?

The seven mass media categories are: Print (including books, pamphlets, newspapers, magazines, and posters), Recordings (such as gramophone records, magnetic tapes, cassettes, CDs, and DVDs), Cinema, Radio, Television, the Internet, and Mobile phones.

How are the Internet and mobile phones often grouped together?

The Internet and mobile phones are frequently grouped together and referred to collectively as digital media.

What are the five characteristics of mass communication identified by sociologist John Thompson?

Sociologist John Thompson identified five key characteristics of mass communication: 1) it involves both technical and institutional methods for production and distribution, 2) it entails the commodification of symbolic forms, 3) it maintains separate contexts between the production and reception of information, 4) it reaches audiences who are 'far removed' in time and space from the producers, and 5) it operates through 'one-to-many' distribution of mass-produced products.

What does the term 'mass' imply when referring to mass media?

In the context of mass media, the term 'mass' signifies that the media products are available in principle to a large number of recipients, rather than indicating a specific quantity of individuals consuming the content.

How does mainstream media differ from alternative media?

While both types of media may utilize mass communication technologies, mainstream media is generally distinguished from alternative media by its content and perspective. However, the text notes that alternative media can also employ mass communication technologies even with smaller audiences.

What is recognized as the first dated printed book, and where was it created?

The earliest dated printed book identified is the "Diamond Sutra," which was produced in China in 868 AD.

Who is credited with inventing the printing press that revolutionized book production, and approximately when?

Johannes Gutenberg is credited with inventing the printing press with movable type, which enabled the mass production of books, around the year 1453.

When did newspapers begin to emerge, and what technological innovations facilitated their widespread distribution?

Newspapers started to develop around 1612, with the first English newspaper appearing in 1620. The emergence of high-circulation newspapers in the early 19th century was made possible by advancements like high-speed rotary steam printing presses and the expansion of railroads for broad distribution.

How did the growth in newspaper circulation affect the relationship between newspapers and their readers?

As newspaper circulation increased, there was a corresponding decline in reader feedback and interactivity, transforming newspapers into a more one-way communication medium.

Around what decade did the term 'the media' start to be commonly used?

The phrase 'the media' began to gain common usage in the 1920s.

What factors contributed to the significant popularity of radio and television in the post-World War II era?

Radio and television gained popularity because they offered both information and entertainment, their audio-visual nature engaged audiences more directly, and they allowed for easier, passive consumption compared to reading.

What economic principle underpinned the growth of mass media in the 20th century?

The growth of mass media was significantly driven by the economics of linear replication, where a single work could be profitable, and economies of scale allowed unit costs to decrease as production volumes rose, thereby increasing profit margins.

What potential threat to democracy is mentioned in relation to media ownership?

The concentration of media ownership is identified as a potential threat to democracy.

What are the three primary effects or functions of mass media identified by Finnegan and Viswanath (1997)?

Finnegan and Viswanath identified three main effects: The Knowledge Gap, Agenda Setting, and Cultivation of Perceptions. These describe how media influences knowledge distribution, shapes public discourse topics, and molds audience perceptions over time.

Explain the concept of the 'Knowledge Gap' in relation to mass media.

The 'Knowledge Gap' theory posits that mass media influences the disparity in knowledge among different segments of the population, affected by factors such as content appeal, accessibility of information channels, and the level of social conflict and diversity within a community.

What is the 'Agenda Setting' function of mass media?

Agenda Setting refers to the media's ability to influence public perception of issues by selectively choosing which topics to highlight for public consumption, thereby shaping the public agenda.

How does the 'Cultivation of Perceptions' theory describe the impact of media exposure?

The 'Cultivation of Perceptions' theory explains that prolonged exposure to media, particularly television, can gradually shape an audience's understanding of reality and social issues, potentially influencing their beliefs and attitudes.

According to the text, who holds control in a highly industrialized nation?

The text suggests that in a highly industrialized country, control is effectively held by whoever controls the communications infrastructure and dissemination of information.

How can mass media influence or shape reality?

Mass media can shape reality by selecting and portraying specific beliefs, values, and traditions, thereby influencing public perception and potentially aligning reality more closely with the media's portrayal.

What role does mass media play in the spread of civil unrest?

Mass media, particularly radio and television, can play a significant role in the spread of civil unrest by influencing public sentiment and coordinating actions across different locations through their distribution networks.

What did media artist Joey Skaggs demonstrate regarding mass media?

Joey Skaggs' work demonstrated how easily mass media can be manipulated through fabricated press releases and staged events, highlighting the vulnerabilities within modern media systems and journalistic practices.

What was the reported concentration of US mass media ownership in 2012?

In 2012, it was reported that approximately 90 percent of mass media in the United States was controlled by six major corporations: GE, News-Corp, Disney, Viacom, Time Warner, and CBS.

How can mass media contribute to the perpetuation of stereotypes and racism?

Mass media can reinforce stereotypes and contribute to racism through framing and agenda-setting, selectively highlighting certain aspects of groups or situations, which can lead to distorted and harmful public perceptions.

What is a common criticism leveled against mass news media regarding its content focus?

A frequent criticism is that mass news media often lacks a focus on local issues, prioritizing national and international news to appeal to a broader audience, which can lead to important local stories being overlooked.

What critique is associated with the term 'mass' in relation to media audiences?

The term 'mass' has been criticized for implying that media audiences are passive and undifferentiated, reflecting concerns about 'mass culture' and 'mass society' potentially leading to a bland, homogeneous cultural landscape.

How has the advent of social media altered the traditional concept of mass media?

Social media has blurred the lines between mass and interpersonal communication, making it less common for large, unified audiences to consume the same content from a single source, thus fundamentally changing or 're-inventing' mass media.

What are the main categories of broadcast media mentioned in the text?

Broadcast media includes radio and television, encompassing various forms like cable television, subscription services, pay-per-view, digital radio, and digital television, which can transmit multiplexed programming.

What is webcasting and podcasting?

Webcasting refers to broadcasting content via the Internet, while podcasting, which gained prominence around 2004, involves delivering audio content through digital technologies.

What does the term 'film' encompass, and what are some alternative names for it?

The term 'film' refers to motion pictures as individual works or as a field of study. It originates from photographic film stock and is also known by terms such as motion pictures, the silver screen, photoplays, cinema, flicks, and movies.

What creates the illusion of motion in films?

The illusion of motion in films is achieved by displaying a rapid succession of still images, leveraging the psychological effects of persistence of vision and beta movement, which trick the eye into perceiving continuous motion.

How is a video game defined in the provided text?

A video game is defined as a game controlled by a computer, utilizing a video display as its primary feedback mechanism and requiring an input device, such as a joystick, keyboard, mouse, or motion sensor.

What key technological advancements have shaped audio recording and reproduction?

Significant advancements include the invention of the phonograph, electrical recording, the mass production of records (like the 78 and LP), magnetic tape recorders, the compact cassette (popularized by the Walkman), digital recording, and the compact disc (CD).

How is the Internet described as an interactive medium?

The Internet is described as interactive because it is a global network of interconnected computer networks that facilitates two-way communication through services like email, online chat, file transfer, and the World Wide Web.

What are some examples of internet media forms mentioned in the text?

Examples of internet media forms include blogs, microblogs, RSS feeds, and podcasts.

When did mobile phones transition into a significant mass medium?

Mobile phones became a mass medium in 1998, following the introduction of downloadable ringing tones in Finland, which paved the way for various media content to be delivered on mobile devices.

What is a magazine, and what are its typical publication frequencies?

A magazine is a periodical publication featuring diverse articles, typically funded by advertising or reader sales. Magazines are commonly published weekly, biweekly, monthly, bimonthly, or quarterly.

What is identified as the primary function of newspapers?

The primary function of newspapers is to inform the public about significant events.

How has the internet influenced newspaper circulation?

While the internet provides alternative information sources, challenging traditional newspapers, it has also offered new platforms for media organizations. Despite this, newspaper circulation has generally declined in most regions during the 21st century.

What types of media are included under the category of 'outdoor media'?

Outdoor media encompasses various forms such as billboards, signs, placards, flying billboards, blimps, skywriting, and augmented reality advertising.

What is the definition of journalism provided in the text?

Journalism is defined as the practice of collecting, analyzing, verifying, and presenting information related to current events, trends, issues, and notable individuals.

What is the primary goal of public relations?

The primary goal of public relations is to manage communication between an organization and its key publics in order to build, maintain, and enhance its positive image.

What does the term 'publishing' encompass?

Publishing refers to the industry involved in producing and distributing literature or information, making it accessible to the public. Traditionally focused on printed materials like books and newspapers, its scope now includes digital content such as websites and blogs.

What is the role of a software publisher?

A software publisher is a company within the software industry that acts as an intermediary between the software developer and the distributor, facilitating the release of software products.

How is an 'internet celebrity' defined?

An internet celebrity is defined as any individual who has achieved fame through the internet.

What are some of the key issues discussed concerning mass media?

Key issues discussed include agenda-setting theory, the impact of media ownership concentration, media bias, the role of media in shaping perceptions of race and gender, the effects of media violence, and the challenges posed by the digital age and social media.

What does the concept of 'mediatization' refer to in the context of media studies?

Mediatization refers to the process through which mass media increasingly influences and shapes other sectors of society, altering their practices and structures.

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Defining Mass Media

Core Concept

Mass media refers to the diverse channels of communication that enable the dissemination of information, entertainment, and ideas to large, geographically dispersed audiences. It encompasses technologies and institutions designed for mass communication.

Scope and Reach

The term signifies media capable of reaching a vast number of people simultaneously. This includes traditional forms like print and broadcast, as well as contemporary digital and social media platforms, reflecting a broad spectrum of communication technologies.

Interdisciplinary Connections

The study of mass media intersects with numerous academic disciplines, including sociology, psychology, political science, economics, anthropology, and technology studies, highlighting its pervasive influence on society and culture.

Key Characteristics

Production & Distribution

Mass media involves sophisticated technical and institutional methods for producing and distributing symbolic content. This often involves large organizations and complex supply chains.

Commodification of Symbols

Information and cultural products are often treated as commodities, packaged and sold to consumers. This economic dimension shapes content creation and dissemination strategies.

Production-Reception Divide

A significant characteristic is the separation between the contexts of production and reception. Audiences typically consume media content remotely, often with limited direct interaction with the creators.

Temporal and Spatial Reach

Mass media products can reach audiences separated by significant distances and time, creating shared experiences across diverse populations and historical periods.

One-to-Many Communication

Traditionally, mass media operates on a one-to-many model, where content is mass-produced and disseminated to a large, often undifferentiated audience.

Historical Trajectory

Early Innovations

The origins of mass media trace back to the invention of the printing press in the mid-15th century, enabling the mass production of books and newspapers. Early forms like popular prints emerged around 1400.

~1400: European popular prints emerge.
1453: Gutenberg's printing press revolutionizes book production.
1605: First newspaper published in Germany.
1620: First English newspaper appears.
Early 1800s: High-circulation newspapers develop in London, aided by steam presses and railroads.

The Broadcast Era

The 20th century saw the rise of electronic media. Radio and television became dominant, offering both information and entertainment, and engaging audiences more passively than print media.

c. 1910: Radio broadcasting begins.
c. 1950: Television becomes a major mass medium.
Post-WWII: Audio-visual technologies gain popularity for their immersive qualities.
1920s: The term "the media" gains currency.

Digital Transformation

The late 20th and early 21st centuries witnessed the digital revolution, with the Internet and mobile phones becoming significant mass media platforms, characterized by interactivity and personalization.

c. 1990: The Internet emerges as a mass medium.
c. 2000: Mobile phones become widespread, enabling new media content delivery.
2000s: Podcasting and other digital formats gain traction.
Present: Social media and streaming services redefine media consumption.

Diverse Forms of Media

Broadcast Media

Includes radio and television, transmitting audio and visual content. Digital broadcasting allows for multiplexing, offering multiple channels within a single signal.

Film

Motion pictures created through recording or animation, perceived as moving images due to persistence of vision. Commonly referred to as movies.

Video Games

Interactive digital entertainment controlled by computer systems, utilizing video displays and input devices. Increasingly recognized as a distinct mass media form.

Audio Recording

Encompasses the capture and reproduction of sound, evolving from mechanical phonographs to digital CDs and streaming formats, facilitating mass distribution of music and spoken word.

Internet Media

Highly interactive platforms like websites, blogs, and social media, accessible globally via interconnected computer networks. The World Wide Web is a key component.

Mobile Media

Content delivered via portable devices like mobile phones and tablets. Introduced in the late 20th century, mobile media is interactive and highly personalized.

Print Media

Includes books, magazines, and newspapers. Newspapers, originating in the 17th century, inform the public but have seen declining circulation with the rise of digital news.

Outdoor Media

Utilizes physical spaces for advertising, such as billboards, signs, and skywriting, reaching audiences in public environments.

Key Professions

Journalism

The practice of collecting, verifying, and presenting information on current events, trends, and issues. It serves to inform the public and hold institutions accountable.

Public Relations

Manages communication between organizations and their publics to cultivate positive public image and understanding. It involves strategic messaging and relationship building.

Publishing

The industry focused on producing and distributing literature and information, encompassing printed works and digital content. Authors can also be publishers.

Internet Celebrity

Individuals who achieve fame through online platforms, leveraging the internet's reach to build personal brands and influence audiences.

Societal Influence

Shaping Perceptions

Mass media significantly influences public perception through agenda-setting and framing, determining which issues gain prominence and how they are understood.

Knowledge Gap: Media access and appeal can widen disparities in public knowledge.
Agenda Setting: Media highlights issues, influencing public discourse and perceived importance.
Cultivation Theory: Prolonged media exposure shapes viewers' perceptions of reality over time.

Stereotyping and Bias

Media portrayals can reinforce or introduce stereotypes, affecting how different groups are perceived. Historical biases in coverage can distort public understanding.

Historically, media representations have sometimes perpetuated stereotypes related to race, gender, and other social categories, influencing societal attitudes and intergroup relations.

Political and Social Impact

Mass media plays a crucial role in political communication, shaping public opinion, and can influence social movements and civil unrest by facilitating rapid information spread.

Ethical Considerations

Media Concentration

A significant concern is the concentration of media ownership within a few large corporations, potentially limiting viewpoint diversity and posing a threat to democratic discourse.

Criticism of Focus

Mass media outlets are often criticized for prioritizing national and international news over local stories, potentially neglecting community-specific issues relevant to smaller audiences.

Passive Consumption

Early critiques viewed mass media audiences as passive recipients of homogenized culture. However, interactive digital media challenges this paradigm, allowing for greater audience participation.

Manipulation and Bias

Concerns exist regarding media bias, the potential for manipulation through fabricated content or selective reporting, and the ethical responsibilities of journalists and media organizations.

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References

Sashwat Yogi "Role Of Media In Social Awareness (A Review Study)." Humanities & Social Sciences Reviews 1.1 (2013): 71â73, online.

Corey Ross, Mass Communications, Society, and Politics from the Empire to the Third Reich (Oxford University Press 2010) on Germany

David Bordwell, Kristin Thompson, and Jeff Smith, Film art: An introduction (McGraw-Hill, 1993.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Mass media Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is based on data from Wikipedia and may not reflect the most current information or nuances of the topic.

This is not professional advice. The information provided does not constitute advice in any field, including media studies, communication, or technology. Always consult official documentation and qualified professionals for specific guidance.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.

The Global Echo

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining Mass Media ℹ️

📡 Core Concept

🌐 Scope and Reach

🔗 Interdisciplinary Connections

Key Characteristics ⚙️

🏭 Production & Distribution

💰 Commodification of Symbols

↔️ Production-Reception Divide

⏳ Temporal and Spatial Reach

➡️ One-to-Many Communication

Historical Trajectory 📈

📜 Early Innovations

📺 The Broadcast Era

💻 Digital Transformation

Diverse Forms of Media 📺

📻 Broadcast Media

🎬 Film

🎮 Video Games

🎵 Audio Recording

🌐 Internet Media

📱 Mobile Media

📰 Print Media

billboard Outdoor Media

Key Professions 🧑‍💼

✍️ Journalism

📢 Public Relations

📚 Publishing

🌟 Internet Celebrity

Societal Influence 🌍

🧠 Shaping Perceptions

🎭 Stereotyping and Bias

📢 Political and Social Impact

Ethical Considerations ⚖️

🌍 Media Concentration

❓ Criticism of Focus

🤔 Passive Consumption

⚠️ Manipulation and Bias

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining Mass Media

Core Concept

Scope and Reach

Interdisciplinary Connections

Key Characteristics

Production & Distribution

Commodification of Symbols

Production-Reception Divide

Temporal and Spatial Reach

One-to-Many Communication

Historical Trajectory

Early Innovations

The Broadcast Era

Digital Transformation

Diverse Forms of Media

Broadcast Media

Film

Video Games

Audio Recording

Internet Media

Mobile Media

Print Media

Outdoor Media

Key Professions

Journalism

Public Relations

Publishing

Internet Celebrity

Societal Influence

Shaping Perceptions

Stereotyping and Bias

Political and Social Impact

Ethical Considerations

Media Concentration

Criticism of Focus

Passive Consumption

Manipulation and Bias

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice