Abstract The paper examines how Jacques Ellul, in his work "The TechnologicalSociety", critiques the history of technique and highlights the myth that we are evolving towards some better state of being with our technological advances. The paper devotes time to explaining how science and medicine is increasingly focusing on making man more technically efficient. The writer believes that Ellul does a thorough job of tracing the characteristics, causes and effects of technology in society.
From the Paper "Jacques Ellul analyzed the standardization of life through the proliferation of technique in his book The Technological Society. In his book Ellul sets out to track and critique the history of technique. In his book, however, certain questions arise about the fate of technique. Ellul does a good job of curbing the tendency to look at technology in terms of the progress myth. Many of the branches of technique he elaborates on in his work, such as politics, police, and man, have become even more advanced in today's society."
Abstract This paper examines how the media is highly influential on society. The writer discusses how politicians depend heavily on the mass media as a way of reaching the public and explains the role of the mass media in foreign policy. Additionaly, the writer shows how media affects the development of new technology. The writer concludes that the media influences behavior through imitation and influences technology by helping determine what sorts of technology are wanted, what services are provided, and what products consumers seek.
From the Paper "The media is very influential in society today and has been for decades. The nature of the media has changed over that time, from the beginnings of the mass media with national magazines and large city newspapers, continuing through the development of the motion picture, radio, and television, and today with new media such as the Internet. Changes in technology clearly affect the nature of the media, making new means of communication possible. The existing media affects technology as well, causing certain types of technology to be developed rather than others, with both the media and the technology carrying the media affecting society in a number of ways."
Tags: TV, newspaper, internet, politics, magazines, communication
Abstract This paper explores the effect mass media has had on society in America. The paper looks at the influence of media on politics, religion, economics, family and society in general. As well as the obvious benefits provided by mass media, such as the ability to access information easily, the paper reviews a number of the negative aspects as well, including the growing power and influence of mass media which has resulted in dysfunctional effects of the mass media in the society.
From the Paper "The mass media as an institution has become an essential element in the society, for the mass media helped shape the culture of American society, especially those concerning the values, traditions, and norms of the society. The mass media also helped proliferate the need of the people to access and know everything and every issue that is of public interest and concern to the society. Because of its influential ability to provide people with information and knowledge that are current and up-to-date, the mass media as a communication institution gradually transformed to be an economic, cultural and politically-influenced institution as well."
Tags: television, internet, computer, technology, modern, communication, telephone, entertainment
Abstract This paper discusses the significance of Marshall McLuhan's theoretical models of media. It suggests that the theory can often be obscured by the aphoristic quality of McLuhan's language. This essay argues, through the application of McLuhan's theories to William Shaw's "In Helsinki Virtual Village" and Longford and Crow's "From the Electronic Cottage to the Silicon Sweatshop," the significance of McLuhan's theoretical models lies in their focus on the often unforeseen social implications of advances in mediatechnologies.
From the Paper "The Social Implications of Media The significance of Marshall McLuhan's theoretical models of media can often be obscured by the aphoristic quality of McLuhan's language. However, as this essay will argue through the application of McLuhan's theories to William Shaw's "In Helsinki Virtual Village" and Longford and Crow's "From the Electronic Cottage to the Silicon Sweatshop," the significance of McLuhan's theoretical models lies in their focus on the often unforeseen social implications of advances in media technologies."
Abstract This research paper examines the impact of integrating a media literacy unit into a public high school ninth grade Basic TV Production course in an effort to measure the development of student critical inquiry, thinking and viewing of mediatechnology. This study expands upon initial research conducted by Renee Hobbs and Richard Frost (1999) in "Instructional Practices in Media Literacy Education and Their Impact on Student's Learning". In addition, the paper also discusses the concept of literacy as a prerequisite to the role it plays in the media arena. The paper contends that because media plays a more prevalent role in our everyday lives, it is imperative that literacy be incorporated into the educational structure, particularly for students are involved in media production.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Objectives of the Study
Background
Statement of the Problem
Current Approaches to Media Literacy Education
The Significance of This Study
Research Questions
Literature Review
Goals of Media Literacy
Guidelines for Media Instruction
Measuring Media Literacy in the K-12 Classroom
Implementing a Media Literacy Program
The Conceptual Framework
Research Methodology
Research Design
Sample Selection
Limitations of the Study
Data to Be Collected
Instrumentation
Definition of Key Terms
Information Sources
From the Paper "Student's have their own ideas about what and how to use certain mediums to express their ideas. Nicholas (2001) states that "Eisner (1994) contends that forms of representation influence how students' perceive, how they think, and how they express understanding. Each from embodies a different way to experience the world. The implications of student perceptions of different forms of representation relate to issues of cognitive pluralism and curricular balance. Providing students with frequent opportunities to construct and express meaning in different forms using a variety of symbol systems addresses the learners' capacity and need to create and manipulate symbols. The absence of these choices limits students' learning experiences and inhibits development of multiple forms of literacy. Advocates for an enriched curriculum argue that a wide spectrum of subjects, including visual arts, dance, music, theatre, and media production should be considered integral to a general education.""
Abstract This paper discusses the representation of female behavior in the media and society. It describes how the perceived role of women in society has changed over time and how these roles are being portrayed in the media today. The paper finally looks at what these depictions teach those people for whom identity is yet to be determined, such as young children.
From the Paper "Today's standards of "privilege" are no longer limited to those who can afford to join country clubs and homes in the Hampton's or Marin. Now, it is associated with money and fame. If you have a lot of both, you are allowed to get away with just about anything and the public will continue to provide you with an income - and getting noticed, becoming famous, that is increasingly seen as a fast route to the kind of power that teenagers so desperately crave (Topcik, 2007). Waiting for school, college, career to make a mark, Teens are the prime example of give it to me now thinking. Thus, when they see depictions of negative social behavior, of self-destructive acts, of debauchery - they think that it is possible for them to get away with it themselves - even though this kind of "fame" is reserved for a very tiny select few. 'There is this assumption of what young women want to watch which is positive role models and people that represent the best that we can be,' said Smith. 'The hidden truth is that women are just like any other audience. We want to laugh, we want to be entertained, we want to see outrageous behavior and things that are very different," (Clark, 2008)."
This paper explores the growing influence of alternative media sources, such as the internet, as well as its effects on various protest movements and groups.
Abstract The writer of this paper examines the recent growth in various alternative media sources which are grabbing more and more viewers away from the usual televised and print media into more locally controlled information sources. This paper details how various activist websites have utilized the world wide web to further their respective causes in innovative ways. For example: MoveOn.org organized a "Virtual March on Washington" where over 400,000 people signed up to flood the offices of the White House and Congress with a barrage of telephone calls and e-mails with support for a peaceful resolution to the war in Iraq. The writer contends that mainstream media tends to frame issues narrowly and in simplistic terms to avoid any real popular momentum whereas on various websites there are virtually no limits as to what can or can not be stated. With its lack of governmental oversight and unlimited bandwidth, cyberspace is finding itself, more often the first choice of those who want fast, reliable information.
From the Paper "The true power, however, of this young medium was displayed in all its might on February 16, 2003, when "people with an astonishing variety of backgrounds and viewpoints" came out to "the biggest anti-war demonstrations ever held... worldwide." Religious organizations, race rights groups, environmentalists, anti-globalists, and others came together like a collective of Venn diagrams, independent but connecting in parts to move toward a common cause. The set up was fascinating because there was no "leader", no single set of beliefs holding these protestors together. From an organizing standpoint this type of setup has some positives and negatives. Since there is no central leadership it becomes a beast with many heads, very difficult to kill. Also, since it's arranged on the local level, the individual groups can spend time gathering up just their core constitutes by focusing on their specific agenda."
Tags:media, technology, communication, internet, information
Abstract This paper looks into stereotypes, biases, and prejudices on television and in other media sources. The author looks at how television has changed over the past decade, and its impact on society, especially children.
From the Paper "In today's ever diversifying society one detrimental problem that remains is that of stereotypes and biases. Do the people in our country need to see more negative portrayals than they already are" Within certain types of media, minorities and women are often times portrayed negatively. Within this research paper, two television shows will be analyzed in terms of age, race, gender, target audiences, socioeconomic differences, stereotypes and biases, clothing and presentation, and the role of characters. Aside from the characters in the television shows, products being advertised will also be evaluated. Often times an advertising company will choose a target audience and present the goods in a specific style, meaning the company will choose different age brackets, background voices, and special effects. Most importantly, the effect these shows have on children will be discussed. Children look at television characters as role models, and this research paper will test these programs to see if integrity and proper moral standards are displayed.?
Abstract This paper discusses the Hypodermic Needle, or Magic Bullet theory concerning the effect of the mass media on society. It defines the theory and looks at the media content of propaganda, film, radio, television, print messages.
From the Paper "The Hypodermic Needle Theory also known as the Magic Bullet Theory was the first major theory concerning the effect of the mass media on society. Originating ..."
Abstract This paper describes a memorable Olympic media event in which two American track and field athletes, Tommie Smith and John Carlos, took advantage of global media coverage of their medal awards ceremony to make a dramatic political statement. The author rpoints out that this famous media event from the 1968 Olympic Games is an example of human reaction to the emergence and social construction of culture. The paper relates that, in this ritual of defiance and sorrow, Tommie Smith and John Carlos reflected their basic ethics and values because they were angered by their country economic and political systems in which economic relations were governed by the dominance of an elite class.
From the Paper "In "The Media and Popular Culture", the author describes a memorable Olympic media event in which two American track and field athletes, Tommie Smith and John Carlos, took advantage of global media coverage of their medal awards ceremony to make a dramatic political statement. As millions of people around the world watched, they raised their black-gloved fists and bowed their heads as the Star Spangled Banner was played. (Edles) Obviously, Tommie Smith and John Carlos considered themselves symbolic actors on a global stage, for their presence representing their country as African American athletes, combined with their raised fists and bowed heads, offered the world beyond Mexico City a symbolic protest against racism in the United States."
Abstract This paper explores what the introduction of the internet can tell us about the relationship between the development of technology and society as a function of one another, in essence. It explores the Internet as a form of social technology and sees how it relates to all levels of society.
From the Paper "Much like the old clich? about which came first, the chicken or the egg, there are two main theories about whether society is a result of technology or whether technology is the result of society. These two theories are known as Social Determinism and Technological Determinism. Both theories believe that one determines and shapes the other. The only question is which one is dependent upon the other and which one stands alone. These ideas are two extremes, but there are many that adhere to shades of these theories and do not believe that one or the other is absolute. Most theorists do not place much scientific value on them as a determining factor of society and technological advances. These theorists believe that the idea that one is completely dependent upon the other is too simplistic to be valid."
Tags:technology, society, level, communication, benefit, theorist, value
Abstract This paper discusses the question of the impact of technology on individuals and society with specific and extended reference to Ursula Franklin's book "The Real World of Technology". The writer notes that it specifies the ways in which technology shapes our reality, our experience of the world and our identity. Further the writer points out that it also focuses on the shape of social relations and the impact on our civil and human rights as a result of these technological advances.
From the Paper "The world we live in today is either a global village or a global chaotic mess, depending on who you ask. The way we talk, think and act has changed dramatically in the last ten, even twenty years. What used to require a physical presence of the parties involved now requires only an access to an appropriate technology that provides the medium and serves as a messenger of old. Nowadays, we no longer need to see in order to interact, no longer to hear to talk or be somewhere to experience something."
Abstract This paper reviews globalization from a modern perspective, meaning that international trade can be as simple as local trade. According to this paper, the catch is that globalization means that businesses that are hoping to keep up with the trends of globalization, also have to keep up with technological advancements.
From the Paper "The modern interpretation of globalization suggests that trade can be accomplished across borders with the same ease in transaction that it can be accomplished within local markets. However, globalization, unlike local trade, was created to ensure that prosperity would come to all countries participating in global trade, bolstering profits, and sending financial capital across every border. This trade, therefore, allows the world to become one single marketplace wherein all businesses have the opportunity to grow. Yet, globalization also insists on businesses aligning themselves with new technologies in order to be part of the competition. "
Abstract This paper argues that the rebel exists within a constant state of tension within society. The paper explains that in one sense rebels are seen as innovators that move society forward, and in another sense they are seen as a direct threat to the stability of a society. The paper explores how the dominant depiction of rebels depends on whether the society is in a state of advancement or trying to stabilize itself and uses two works to examine this argument. These works are "Hackers and the Battle for Cyberspace" by Helen Nissenbaum and "From Hell's Angel" by Ralph "Sonny" Barger. The paper also looks at how rebels occupy a precarious place in society. In conclusion, the paper shows that sometimes rebels are seen as a positive force of creativity, however when they threaten dominant institutions too much they are transformed into criminals that society attempts to destroy.
From the Paper "This statement seems to indicate that although hackers largely did not play by the rules they did provide a valuable social and economic function. They were the creative individuals who really made the Internet into the highly functional technology that it is today. For this reason their rebellious nature was accepted by society as a whole.Many writers and researchers have noted that rebels play vital social, cultural, economic and political functions within society. For example, in "The Praise Folly" Desiderius Erasmus has Folly (the pinnacle of rebelliousness) explains her importance to society."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that in today's world, the mass media has an impact in almost all we do as people. The writer notes that media affects everything from what clothes we wear to what television programs we watch. The writer discusses that James Lull, in his book 'Media, Communication, Culture' explains how media interacts and affects the communication among people and how culture changes with advances in media and technology. The writer concludes that 'Media, Communication, and Culture' informs an audience of how the mass media and modern forms of communication have affected the development of culture and the ways of society. Further, the writer maintains that James Lull uses a distinctive style and a logical structure in order to properly educate his audience about the influence mass media has on today's world.
From the Paper "Within each chapter, he inserts an article on a real life example of events where mass media, human communication, and culture were involved and had an effect. Such events as the Chinese student rebellion at Tiananmen Square in 1989 and the Bill Clinton/Monica Lewinsky scandal in the mid-1990's are included along with explanations of how media, communication, and culture had an effect on these historical events. Along with modern events, Lull includes historical changes in media and communication to emphasize his argument that mass media and technological advances have had major effects on societies across the world. His structure also allows for any member of his audience to follow and understand what he puts forth. Lull avoids implication and instead tells the audience what he wants them to know to avoid letting them infer it on their own. An informed audience will also understand an author's purpose more readily than an audience which inferred the author's intentions. Lull also tends to end discussions by putting more emphasis on his own ideas and support of others that follows what he believes about media, communication, and culture."
