I found the chapters on Mass Media the most interesting. I am very media-oriented person and I like connecting communication concepts to the media. This chapter explained many media effects and how the media can cultivate us. I really enjoyed learning more about cultivation theory. I am a strong believer that the media is a major influence for how we perceive the world. This theory makes complete sense to me because I can easily relate personal examples to how the media or a T.V show in particular has shaped a thought or belief in a person. Media effects research is a very special area to focus on-it explains many of the preconceived notions and bias that individuals hold. This is also a major contributor to acculturation. Acculturation is the idea of adapting yourself and submerging yourself into a new culture. When people watch American T.V shows, they receive a stereotypical idea of what our culture is like and therefore passes down prejudices.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Interesting Concept-Cultivation Theory
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Yeah, this is very true in my opinion. The cultivation theory makes plenty of sense, especially because of how people act in our society today. Images on television, magazines, and in movies often alter the perception of reality for many human beings. I recently concluded a research study that asset the level of realism compared to the amount of television viewed and how people expected there partners to look and act. People who watch many reality TV shows expect there partner to be just like the people they see on TV. This is very shallow. This refers back to our discussion on the responsibly of the media. People need to become more aware of what they are viewing and ask themselves how much this show is affecting the reality that they live in.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the media play a very significant role in some people's lives. Some people believe anything they read or see on television for instance, which shapes their values and beliefs. Unfortunately, this also creates biases. Some people are only exposed to a certain group of people that is different from them through the media. For instance, someone who lives in a particular part of the world that is not diverse at all would not have firsthand knowledge of or experiences with someone of a different background, leaving them with the portrayals of these groups in the media. Also, certain shows on television, for instance, can create certain perceptions in the audience.
ReplyDeleteJenelle Murphy,
ReplyDeleteI think you are correct when you write about the influence the media has on us through TV shows and movies. It would be interesting for Trenholm to discuss this further if she had the space, and to see how it ultimately affects us and our communication with each other.
We all know that we are affected somehow from television. It could influence people’s career choices and relationship choices, just based off from what they see and here from actors. Anything with as much influence and sway as the media should definitely be something we are aware of. An investigation into this is something we as a society can all benefit from. Take care!
You mention that TV passes down stereotypes. I think this is true to some extent, because TV does not push the boundaries until something becomes generally acceptable. However, there are examples where TV helps spread acceptance and remove stereotypes. For instance, when Ellen Degeneres came out as a lesbian on her TV show. With new types of media on the Internet, it seems that it can also spread stereotypes but also lead to more interaction, acceptance and understanding. Anyone can create a blog or web site to spread their views - some extending stereotypes and others breaking them down. Do you think broadcase media like TV or new types of media on the Internet are playing a bigger role in cultivation today? Is this a positive or negative in terms of the type of cultivation that results?
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