To what extent would you say that contemporary television news broadcasting is postmodern?
It can be seen that contemporary televesion news is postmodern as it involves inertextuality, bricolage and metanarrative, and Baudrillard's simulacra and hyper reality.
Firstly, it is said that intertextuality and bricolage is a concept of postmodernism and it could be signified in the news. Intertexuality can be signified with news reports where footage from other reports from different news channels such as Al Jazeera or other footage can be used again but with more information, as signified with the Libya conflict, where previous footage is used to show current events. The audience therefore can gaining meaning and see development in the event and follow the event as it is happening, as signified with the Royal Wedding. Therefore, the news would be postmodern as audiences can understand current events whether they've watched the intertextual reference or not.
The element bricolage is also signified in the television news, as some reports do have a mixture of news and documentary , for example sound bridging, voice overs, expert interviews, accounts from witnesses and events that link to the story. Also, metanarrative is also seen in the news as it provides a range of narratives (reports and stories) that help shape our society and culture.
Jean Baudrillard's theory on simulacrum and hyperreality theories which suggests that reality is "the simulation of something which never really existed"shows how the news simulates events around the world , so audiences think the event we are experiencing isnt real as no one in the "actual event" is watching it from the comfort of our home. For example the war we are experiencing is a simulation in our own cultural context.
Overall, the television news broadcasting is post modern as it contains hyperreality, intertextuality, bricolage of which a postmodern text is derived from. The repetion of previpous events may inform audiences and make them view the current event . Also news broadcasting can be postmodern as it mixes elements of documentary and news and can be seen to be a simualtion, as audiences are convinced that the war is ultimately devastating and results in poverty, but to an extent this may not entirely be true.
Saturday 30 April 2011
Reality TV Exam Practice
Watch an episode of a contemporary reality game show. In what ways do the editors construct contestants into particular character roles? Is this helpful for the audience or does it manipulate audience responses too far?
This episode from 2010's I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here constructs character roles of celebrities such as Gillian McKeith as being melodramatic and petrified of being faced with the bush tucker trials. In most of the challenges, Gillian is constructed to be more scared, which contrasts with her celebrity profile of being quite calm and confident in her show 'You are what you eat'. The show offers gratifications to audiences, as they get a chance to view celebrities in a new light and discover their real personalities. The editors try to construct the roles of celebrities as being leaders, villians or duplicitous characters in order to allow audiences to identify and sympathise with a particular celebrity such as Stacey Soloman or Dom Joly.
Through the use of long shots and close up shots, the audience are allowed to be voyeurs and listen to the celebrities discusses the trials and tribulations of the jungle and each other. The show also offers audiences a chance to identify with celebrities such as Gillian McKeith. Yet , the audiences may have less sympathy for celebrities who appear to have a game plan or just try to gain sympathy by audiences, just to remain in the jungle and potentially win.
It can be argued that the editors do manipulate audience responses to character roles, as celebrities on I'm a Celebrity are constructed to be liked and disliked, as audiences may not have sympathy for Gillian McKeith for example, as she reportedly claimed that she was pregnant in order to leave the jungle, therefore audiences may resent her as she is making a mockery of the show and is being unfair to the other contestants. The interviews by each celebrity surrounding the fire incident shows the audience what each celebrity feels about each other, as gradually certain celebrities might resent each other and cause feuds. Yet it can be argued that by constructing characters as being bad or duplicitous may be going too far, as the celebrities might not be trying to cause trouble in the camp.
On the whole it can be argued that the construction of character roles could manipulate audience responses to far, as certain celebrities might be team players, yet could be constructed as being the so called 'resented, and sly characters', as seen with Jenny.
This episode from 2010's I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here constructs character roles of celebrities such as Gillian McKeith as being melodramatic and petrified of being faced with the bush tucker trials. In most of the challenges, Gillian is constructed to be more scared, which contrasts with her celebrity profile of being quite calm and confident in her show 'You are what you eat'. The show offers gratifications to audiences, as they get a chance to view celebrities in a new light and discover their real personalities. The editors try to construct the roles of celebrities as being leaders, villians or duplicitous characters in order to allow audiences to identify and sympathise with a particular celebrity such as Stacey Soloman or Dom Joly.
Through the use of long shots and close up shots, the audience are allowed to be voyeurs and listen to the celebrities discusses the trials and tribulations of the jungle and each other. The show also offers audiences a chance to identify with celebrities such as Gillian McKeith. Yet , the audiences may have less sympathy for celebrities who appear to have a game plan or just try to gain sympathy by audiences, just to remain in the jungle and potentially win.
It can be argued that the editors do manipulate audience responses to character roles, as celebrities on I'm a Celebrity are constructed to be liked and disliked, as audiences may not have sympathy for Gillian McKeith for example, as she reportedly claimed that she was pregnant in order to leave the jungle, therefore audiences may resent her as she is making a mockery of the show and is being unfair to the other contestants. The interviews by each celebrity surrounding the fire incident shows the audience what each celebrity feels about each other, as gradually certain celebrities might resent each other and cause feuds. Yet it can be argued that by constructing characters as being bad or duplicitous may be going too far, as the celebrities might not be trying to cause trouble in the camp.
On the whole it can be argued that the construction of character roles could manipulate audience responses to far, as certain celebrities might be team players, yet could be constructed as being the so called 'resented, and sly characters', as seen with Jenny.
News Values Exam Practice
Analyse a news broadcast in terms of news values employed during selection and construction, possible gate keeping and possible bias in the broadcast. How explicit are these factors to the audience? Does this matter?
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b010r3xy/BBC_News_at_Six_29_04_2011/
Frequency is signified in BBC's news values as they select latest news, for example the protests in Libya and the recent attempts by rebels and Gaddafi's supporters to siege land on the border with Tunisia. In the last few months , the news coverage has been focused on Libya and the efforts to end Gaddafi's dictatorship, therefore the BBC see it fitting to report on these events. The continuity news value is evident in BBC's news reports, as the events in Libya are constantly changing and are eventful, as signified with Gaddafi's troops claiming land on the border with Tunisia and contains repetition and regular updates of other ongoing events, such as the Royal Wedding.
The repeated reporting on the royal wedding of Kate Middleton and future King, William, refers to elite persons, as the wedding is broadcast worldwide and draws attention to royalty and instills patriotic values into audiences. There is also mini interviews with the public and thier reactions to the wedding, with one person talking about waiting overnight to see the event and street parties in Ilkley, East Belfast and other areas in the UK.
Another report linked to dynamics is the recent tornado in Alabama which has left many people homless and has destroyed the livehoods of many people. The sounds of people screaming and shots of the tornado sweeping across the state signify how destructive the tornado is. The high angle shot of Alabama signifies how much chaos and destruction has been done throughout the state, with the voiceover saying how search and resue teams are searching for missing people in the wreckage. As well as this , the reference to consance and Syria signified how people are protesting against the current government and President Asad's re
In terms of the way the show was structured, the gatekeepers show external news of negativity, as signfied with Libya, and Syria, where protestors were killed by police. The proximity of news involving the British citizen killed in a cafe in Marrakesh, as well as the conflict in Bristol , where 15 people were killed due to the building of a Tesco supermarket in the area. Therefore, the local news became closer to home,although the negative news in selected at the end, the programme concludes with the main event; The Royal Wedding.
The bias report surrounds Syria, as 500 people were killed and actually stigmatises the protestors, as events in Syria have only recently emerged and could potentially erupt into a wider conflict between people and the Syrian government.
Though, these factors may not be explicit to audiences, as the programme lasts half an hour and only mentions the daily news, which is only a fraction of the programme which is undermined by the talked about Royal Wedding . Yet, the BBC might have chosen these stories, as they could affect a larger audience, as signfied with the tornado in Alabama , the protests in Syria to name a few. However, these factors may not immediately affect the audiences, as they can access news on the internet, smartphones and other devices to gain information on events going on in the world. The News proves to be an outlet for audiences to be curious of events and to follow their interests on events as they progress.
Although, audiences would be unwilling to pursue the wider news, as BBC news covers the top stories and broadens events into time slots, which may be enough for audiences who might not find the time to catch up with latest stories.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b010r3xy/BBC_News_at_Six_29_04_2011/
Frequency is signified in BBC's news values as they select latest news, for example the protests in Libya and the recent attempts by rebels and Gaddafi's supporters to siege land on the border with Tunisia. In the last few months , the news coverage has been focused on Libya and the efforts to end Gaddafi's dictatorship, therefore the BBC see it fitting to report on these events. The continuity news value is evident in BBC's news reports, as the events in Libya are constantly changing and are eventful, as signified with Gaddafi's troops claiming land on the border with Tunisia and contains repetition and regular updates of other ongoing events, such as the Royal Wedding.
The repeated reporting on the royal wedding of Kate Middleton and future King, William, refers to elite persons, as the wedding is broadcast worldwide and draws attention to royalty and instills patriotic values into audiences. There is also mini interviews with the public and thier reactions to the wedding, with one person talking about waiting overnight to see the event and street parties in Ilkley, East Belfast and other areas in the UK.
Another report linked to dynamics is the recent tornado in Alabama which has left many people homless and has destroyed the livehoods of many people. The sounds of people screaming and shots of the tornado sweeping across the state signify how destructive the tornado is. The high angle shot of Alabama signifies how much chaos and destruction has been done throughout the state, with the voiceover saying how search and resue teams are searching for missing people in the wreckage. As well as this , the reference to consance and Syria signified how people are protesting against the current government and President Asad's re
In terms of the way the show was structured, the gatekeepers show external news of negativity, as signfied with Libya, and Syria, where protestors were killed by police. The proximity of news involving the British citizen killed in a cafe in Marrakesh, as well as the conflict in Bristol , where 15 people were killed due to the building of a Tesco supermarket in the area. Therefore, the local news became closer to home,although the negative news in selected at the end, the programme concludes with the main event; The Royal Wedding.
The bias report surrounds Syria, as 500 people were killed and actually stigmatises the protestors, as events in Syria have only recently emerged and could potentially erupt into a wider conflict between people and the Syrian government.
Though, these factors may not be explicit to audiences, as the programme lasts half an hour and only mentions the daily news, which is only a fraction of the programme which is undermined by the talked about Royal Wedding . Yet, the BBC might have chosen these stories, as they could affect a larger audience, as signfied with the tornado in Alabama , the protests in Syria to name a few. However, these factors may not immediately affect the audiences, as they can access news on the internet, smartphones and other devices to gain information on events going on in the world. The News proves to be an outlet for audiences to be curious of events and to follow their interests on events as they progress.
Although, audiences would be unwilling to pursue the wider news, as BBC news covers the top stories and broadens events into time slots, which may be enough for audiences who might not find the time to catch up with latest stories.
Friday 29 April 2011
Representation and Regulation: Exam Practice
Family Guy has more stereotypes than Eastenders, as Eastenders contains fairly limited representations of different groups that are featured in the UK. In Family Guy, gender is fairly represented through the male and female characters of Peter Griffin and Lois Griffin. Peter, on one hand is represented as being immature and gullible, as he purchases outlandish items such as a 1920s magazine kiosk, helicopters, and other unimaginable items and is often dominant, as he doesn't listen to his wife. However, Lois Griffin is represented as being practical and sensible, as she makes the right decisions, as signified when she removes the carpet in the house to prevent Peter from statically shocking everyone , due to his fuzzy pyjamas. However, she is also sexually driven and can be seen to be alluring to other males such as Quagmire. The female newsreader Diane Simmons is a female character that is subordinated, as she has little to say on the news and is a sex object that is controlled by her co anchor Tom Tucker.
These representations contrast with Eastenders, where there are a range of representations of different groups, such as homosexuals, black people and Asian families. Firstly women are presented as being obnoxious and sexually alluring, as signified with Kim Fox. Other dominant representations of women include Zainab Masood, who controls her husband and is in charge of their company Masala Masood. Women are also represented as always being concerned with love as Heather Trott is really excited to go on a website with someone else. Men are also represented as being dominant, as signified with Phil Mitchell and Max Branning, but are also represented as sly , as signfied with Michael Moon.
There are alternative representations of men, such as being sad and emotional, as Jack Branning grieves his child who died in a cot death, and other men being concerned about him and caring towards him, as signified with Alfie Moon.
In accordance to the other representations, ethinic minorities are represented as being active members of the community and are caring to other characters, as signified with the Masood family, which is an alternative representation in a post 9/11 era, where Muslims are demonised in the media and are resented.
In this episode from Eastenders, the most stereotyped group are teenagers. They are represented as being confused, angry, bullies and troublesome, as signified with Ben Mitchell, who makes a false profile on a dating website, in order to appeal to Heather but in a negative way, which will cause her to feel lonely. The other stereotypes are signified as being rebellious and relaxed, as seen with Fat Boy who acts like a black person with an informal, slang accent.
In contrast to Eastenders, Family Guy constructs stereotypes in order to create humour and often mocks and exaggerates these representations to entertain audiences.Therefore, audiences would be able to identify with these stereotypes and mock them without being in trouble, as they are represented as the extremes of what they recognise in their own lives. Yet, in Eastenders, most of the groups are fairly constructed in order to show audiences that alternative representations of these groups do exist, as men are able to be dominant, yet be emotional and caring and ethnic groups such as British Muslims are not evil or threatening to the status quo. Yet it can be argued whether the institution has any hegemonic values, as teenagers and women are not fairly represented and men are to a larger extent.
These representations contrast with Eastenders, where there are a range of representations of different groups, such as homosexuals, black people and Asian families. Firstly women are presented as being obnoxious and sexually alluring, as signified with Kim Fox. Other dominant representations of women include Zainab Masood, who controls her husband and is in charge of their company Masala Masood. Women are also represented as always being concerned with love as Heather Trott is really excited to go on a website with someone else. Men are also represented as being dominant, as signified with Phil Mitchell and Max Branning, but are also represented as sly , as signfied with Michael Moon.
There are alternative representations of men, such as being sad and emotional, as Jack Branning grieves his child who died in a cot death, and other men being concerned about him and caring towards him, as signified with Alfie Moon.
In accordance to the other representations, ethinic minorities are represented as being active members of the community and are caring to other characters, as signified with the Masood family, which is an alternative representation in a post 9/11 era, where Muslims are demonised in the media and are resented.
In this episode from Eastenders, the most stereotyped group are teenagers. They are represented as being confused, angry, bullies and troublesome, as signified with Ben Mitchell, who makes a false profile on a dating website, in order to appeal to Heather but in a negative way, which will cause her to feel lonely. The other stereotypes are signified as being rebellious and relaxed, as seen with Fat Boy who acts like a black person with an informal, slang accent.
In contrast to Eastenders, Family Guy constructs stereotypes in order to create humour and often mocks and exaggerates these representations to entertain audiences.Therefore, audiences would be able to identify with these stereotypes and mock them without being in trouble, as they are represented as the extremes of what they recognise in their own lives. Yet, in Eastenders, most of the groups are fairly constructed in order to show audiences that alternative representations of these groups do exist, as men are able to be dominant, yet be emotional and caring and ethnic groups such as British Muslims are not evil or threatening to the status quo. Yet it can be argued whether the institution has any hegemonic values, as teenagers and women are not fairly represented and men are to a larger extent.
Wednesday 27 April 2011
Gender Studies Exam Practice
"Audiences feel safe with the idea of genre". How far do you feel this statement is true?
Audiences do feel safe with the idea of genre, because it's something they understand . Through genre, audience are able to distinguish certain convetions of a genre, for example guns, horses, deserts and cowboy hats connote that a film is a western. By being defined into a genre, audiences are able to expect certain things from it, as signified with gangster films which usually include violence, drug use and car chases.
In accordance, genere is culturally interwined in society, which allows audiences to identify with characters, events and the genre itself. Evidently, the reality genre is a part of British culture known as Reality TV by audiences, yet is a hybrid genre of soap opera, game shows which the audience may not know of.
The hybrid genreleads to genres becoming mixed and may confusing to some audiences. The arrival of a new genre may confound audiences, as they are unaware of the codes and conventions it contains. Yet. audiences may be curious of new genres, as it may adopt new conventions and may interest audiences through style , plot and characters. The recent influx of reality TV and Docusoap genres have become so popular, it suggests that audiences do like new genres and changes to TV.
Therefore, it can be convincingly argued that audiences feel safe with genre, as they can be familiar with the conventions of the genre , for example guns, cowboys connote a western. Yet, the emergence of new genres may suit certain audiences who may enjoy certain programmes such as Docusoaps and reality TV shows.
Audiences do feel safe with the idea of genre, because it's something they understand . Through genre, audience are able to distinguish certain convetions of a genre, for example guns, horses, deserts and cowboy hats connote that a film is a western. By being defined into a genre, audiences are able to expect certain things from it, as signified with gangster films which usually include violence, drug use and car chases.
In accordance, genere is culturally interwined in society, which allows audiences to identify with characters, events and the genre itself. Evidently, the reality genre is a part of British culture known as Reality TV by audiences, yet is a hybrid genre of soap opera, game shows which the audience may not know of.
The hybrid genreleads to genres becoming mixed and may confusing to some audiences. The arrival of a new genre may confound audiences, as they are unaware of the codes and conventions it contains. Yet. audiences may be curious of new genres, as it may adopt new conventions and may interest audiences through style , plot and characters. The recent influx of reality TV and Docusoap genres have become so popular, it suggests that audiences do like new genres and changes to TV.
Therefore, it can be convincingly argued that audiences feel safe with genre, as they can be familiar with the conventions of the genre , for example guns, cowboys connote a western. Yet, the emergence of new genres may suit certain audiences who may enjoy certain programmes such as Docusoaps and reality TV shows.
Censorship Exam Practice
Will we ever reach a point where as an audience, we are so desensitised that we don't need the BBFC anymore?
In my opinion, there will not be a point where the BBFC is not needed. As the audience become more desensitised to texts, producers would try to take advantage, by making their films more explicit. Different audiences such as children would be susceptible to what they see and may be negatively influenced, hence they would be unable to question what they see in the text, as it is constantly visible in the media.
It can be argued that the BBFC won't be needed in the future as audiences are becoming more desensitised, as signified with lads mags and newspapers such as The Sun's page 3, which contain sexual content on the front covers and inside the publication. This exposure to immoral content can also be stemmed from violent video games like COD, Kane and Lynch, which are mainly played by younger audiences, who can gain access to mature rated games fairly easily.
However, the exposure to such games may result in a moral panic, as younger audiences are influenced by these games, hence the need for more control than the BBFC is required. Though, previous cases have proved that the BBFC is essential, as signified with the Manhunt game, which supposedly inspired two teenagers to kidnap and kill 3 year old, Jamie Bulger. The methods used by the two boys can be seen in the film Childs Play 3, which one of their parents had rented. This case clarifies how the need for the BBFC is essential , as they could access the game easily and be negatively influenced by it.
If audiences do get more desensitised in the future, the need to ban such games could be well enforced. Or, the need for higher age ratings might well be introduced, instead of getting rid of the BBFC.
In my opinion, there will not be a point where the BBFC is not needed. As the audience become more desensitised to texts, producers would try to take advantage, by making their films more explicit. Different audiences such as children would be susceptible to what they see and may be negatively influenced, hence they would be unable to question what they see in the text, as it is constantly visible in the media.
It can be argued that the BBFC won't be needed in the future as audiences are becoming more desensitised, as signified with lads mags and newspapers such as The Sun's page 3, which contain sexual content on the front covers and inside the publication. This exposure to immoral content can also be stemmed from violent video games like COD, Kane and Lynch, which are mainly played by younger audiences, who can gain access to mature rated games fairly easily.
However, the exposure to such games may result in a moral panic, as younger audiences are influenced by these games, hence the need for more control than the BBFC is required. Though, previous cases have proved that the BBFC is essential, as signified with the Manhunt game, which supposedly inspired two teenagers to kidnap and kill 3 year old, Jamie Bulger. The methods used by the two boys can be seen in the film Childs Play 3, which one of their parents had rented. This case clarifies how the need for the BBFC is essential , as they could access the game easily and be negatively influenced by it.
If audiences do get more desensitised in the future, the need to ban such games could be well enforced. Or, the need for higher age ratings might well be introduced, instead of getting rid of the BBFC.
Media Ownership Exam Practice
Virgin has three major sections of their conglomorate: Virgin Media , Virgin Consumer products such as Virgin Radio, as well as transport such as Virgin trains and radio stations.
Virgin Media
This is section in the conglomerate deals with broadband services for consumers. In addition, this section also covers Virgin TV, which competes with Sky to offer a vast range of programmes. Along with this, Virgin Media also includes phone packages which are improved in order to appeal to consumers. The addition of mobile services with the broadband service is offered by Virgin . Virgin Radio is also an established product which broadcasts globally, for example Italy, India, Thailand, France and other countries.
Virgin Consumer Products
Virgin is well known for its Megastore which allows consumers to purchase CDs, DVDs games, books, apparel and electronics from stores around the world. As well as this, Virgin also has products such as Virgin books, Virgin Wines and other commerical products which cater for the audiences' needs. The addition of Virgin Holidays makes its easier for consumers to fly with Virgin as they could offer quality services to different countries.
Virgin Transport
Virgin is widely recognised for its transport- from aeroplanes to trains, Virgin's trains travel around the UK , for example London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh and Glasgow, and are a vital service for many commuters . The addition of Virgin Atlantic aeroplanes allows coommuters to travel to Dubai, Florida and other countries, thus being recognised as a global brand.
Saturday 23 April 2011
Media Mock Exam Revision
Task 5- Episode from The Simpsons
'The Great Simpsina'
Dominant Reading
The Simpsons is a family orientated show which contains humour and satirises society.
Negotiated Reading
The Simpsons is a show which contains humour and conventional American stereotypes such as Chief Wiggum, but also has social and political messages.
Oppositional Reading
The Simpsons is a show which contains negative stereotypes and has humour which may offend countries such as China. The show contains poor role models and actually does'nt represent the ideal American family and has gradually begun to tire in terms of plot, structure and ideas.
The reading which is closest to my own is the negotiated reading, as it enables me to look at the underlying conventions of the text and defines what the producers of the show are trying to convey in each episode. By having stereotypes which are believable, I am able to be more familiar with the text and identify with different characters.
'The Great Simpsina'
Dominant Reading
The Simpsons is a family orientated show which contains humour and satirises society.
Negotiated Reading
The Simpsons is a show which contains humour and conventional American stereotypes such as Chief Wiggum, but also has social and political messages.
Oppositional Reading
The Simpsons is a show which contains negative stereotypes and has humour which may offend countries such as China. The show contains poor role models and actually does'nt represent the ideal American family and has gradually begun to tire in terms of plot, structure and ideas.
The reading which is closest to my own is the negotiated reading, as it enables me to look at the underlying conventions of the text and defines what the producers of the show are trying to convey in each episode. By having stereotypes which are believable, I am able to be more familiar with the text and identify with different characters.
Media Mock Exam Revision
Task 4- Violent Scene from a gangster film
Scarface (1983)
What is the effect of the scene on the audience?
In this scene from Scarface (1983) injects ideologies into the audience that violence is acceptable. The medium shot of the protagonist, Tony Montana with the machine gun connotes power and invincibility, as the protagonist feels in power whilst holding the gun. The adult audience could have oppositional readings towards the text, as it condones violence and features content which could result in younger audience copying the violence with tragic consequences. The diegitic sound of the gunfire and the tracking shot of the protagonist allows the audience to identify with Montana, as he is about to face his enemy and be killed. The contrapuntal sound of the Cuban music connotes tension, as the Montana is surrounded by the enemy and may not escape out of his mansion alive.
The constant parallel sound of gunfire and destruction may result in the audience becoming desensitised to the violence, as they may not realise the consequences in real life and may have a lack of morals. Yet it can be argued that the audience could watch the film in order to be educated on the consequences of drugs and power and may watch the scene in order to fit into a crowd. By watching this scene, the audience are able to identify with Montana's last moments in the film and gain gratifications through the reckless violence and destruction. In order ways, the audience may watch the scene in order to divert from real life, as the audience's expectations are fulfilled, as the violence in the film allows them to realise that being involved in crime is not as beneficial as it is constructed in the film itself. Though, the audience may also gain rounded views of the crime circuit by watching the film and this scene, as the gangsters are wealthy, violent and are represented as being all powerful. To younger audiences, the crime underworld may seem profitable and rich, but is mostly shallow and results in death, as signified with this scene.
Scarface (1983)
What is the effect of the scene on the audience?
In this scene from Scarface (1983) injects ideologies into the audience that violence is acceptable. The medium shot of the protagonist, Tony Montana with the machine gun connotes power and invincibility, as the protagonist feels in power whilst holding the gun. The adult audience could have oppositional readings towards the text, as it condones violence and features content which could result in younger audience copying the violence with tragic consequences. The diegitic sound of the gunfire and the tracking shot of the protagonist allows the audience to identify with Montana, as he is about to face his enemy and be killed. The contrapuntal sound of the Cuban music connotes tension, as the Montana is surrounded by the enemy and may not escape out of his mansion alive.
The constant parallel sound of gunfire and destruction may result in the audience becoming desensitised to the violence, as they may not realise the consequences in real life and may have a lack of morals. Yet it can be argued that the audience could watch the film in order to be educated on the consequences of drugs and power and may watch the scene in order to fit into a crowd. By watching this scene, the audience are able to identify with Montana's last moments in the film and gain gratifications through the reckless violence and destruction. In order ways, the audience may watch the scene in order to divert from real life, as the audience's expectations are fulfilled, as the violence in the film allows them to realise that being involved in crime is not as beneficial as it is constructed in the film itself. Though, the audience may also gain rounded views of the crime circuit by watching the film and this scene, as the gangsters are wealthy, violent and are represented as being all powerful. To younger audiences, the crime underworld may seem profitable and rich, but is mostly shallow and results in death, as signified with this scene.
Wednesday 20 April 2011
Media Mock Exam Revision
Task 3 - Representation Essay
Media representations rarely challenge the dominant values of society nor do they give a voice to those with little power. To what extent is this true for the group or place you have studied? Why?
In the media, hegemonic institutions often create negative representations of groups and places , for example homosexuals and black males are marginalised and demonised in the tabloid press. By marginalising these groups, the elite are enforcing their dominant values and injecting their ideologies into the audience.Yet, specific groups in the media try to challenge the dominant values and representations which are created by the elite. Groups such as obese people, homosexuals, ethnic minorities and women are fairly represented across the media, as seen with soap operas such as Eastenders, Coronation Street, which signify these groups in order to represent a tolerant society. The representation of obese people for example on reality television shows such as The Biggest Loser on ITV could signify to the audience, that this group should be accepted and not marginalised in society.
On one hand, higher institutions do in fact subordinate groups in the media, as signified with teenagers. In the print platform, teenagers are often negatively represented as being deviant and irresponsible. Teenage black males are represented as being violent and as Stan Cohen states, they are 'folk devils who violate societal values of self control'. As well as the print platform, teenage males in general are predominantly involved in crime and are constructed as being deviant on shows such as Waterloo Road and Crimewatch on BBC1. On these shows, teenagers are affiliated with drugs, theft of vehicles and are represented as being manic and troublesome. As well as teenage males, teenage girls are negatively represented as being irresponsible, as they get pregnant at a young age. By representing teenagers in this way, the audience are injected with ideologies that teenagers are irresponsible and immature.
Likewise, the representation of homosexuals and ethnic minorities in the media is often negative, as they are constructed by the elite to be resented. In television shows such as Glee, homosexuals are stereotyped as being flamboyant, but are often subordinated by the dominant white male. Similarly, ethnic minorities are marginalised in the media, as signified with muslims, who are constructed by the hegemonic elite to be radical and evil. The marginalisation of these groups in the media and the misrepresentation of these groups results in the audience having oppositional readings to them and results in these groups being unable to challenge the status quo. The elite therefore inject thier ideologies into the audience that these groups are harmful and gain a collective view that these groups are threatening, when they are often not.
In many hip hop and rap music videos, women are subordinated in order to maintain the status of the dominant male singer. By fetishising through close up shots of areas of the women's body, such as the breasts and legs, the male audience gain scocophilic pleasures out of watching women. The inclusion of women in music videos, who are wearing scantily clad clothing fulfills the male audiences' fantasies, as women are subservient to men in the videos and are constructed as 'eye candy' for the dominant male. Therefore, the male audience could have negotiated readings with the producers, as males are being tempted by glamorous women.
In contrast, it can be argued that women in music videos do have power, which could challenge dominant ideologies, as signified with Lady Gaga's music videos, such as Alejandro, where men are chained and are subservient to the dominant female. As well as Lady Gaga, emerging female music artists challenge dominant hegemonic values, as songs such as 'Do it like a dude' by Jessie J represent women as being dominant and superior to men, and in many ways contains post- feminist values, as it perpetuates the idea that women can be equal to men and do the same jobs as men. The emerging music videos by female music artists do challenge ideologies held by the hegemonic elite, as women in these videos are more dominant and through their songs try to represent themselves more fairly.
Similarly, the representation of obese people and obesity in the media has often been negative, with obese people being marginalised or ridiculed in films such as Austin Powers: Goldmember, Superbad and in soap operas such as Eastenders , where Heather Trott is undesirable due to her appearance. However in the media recently, initiatives have been implemented in order to raise awareness of obesity, with shows such as the Biggest Loser, Supersize vs Superskinny and other shows which are aimed at weight loss. By having fair stereotypes of obese people who desire to be thin, audiences can be more aware and accepting of obese people and understand their emotional pain whilst going through rigid diets. Whilst previous deemed undersirable, shapely women feature on fashion magazines such as Vogue , in contrast to previous years where obese women were ostracized from magazines due to thier appeareance.
As well as obese people, ethnic minorities and disabled people are more prevelant in the media, with television dramas such as Glee and Eastenders encouraging fair representations of these groups. By including these representations, audiences are able to be identify with them and be more acceptable of groups, which were previously marginalised. In many films, ethnic minorities such as black people, British Asians challenge dominant values, as they are dominant lead characters in films, as seen with Bend it Like Beckham, The Book of Eli and other films which have ethnic minorities. The inclusion of these representations of other groups encourages the audience to realise that diversity should be accepted in the media and also should allow accurate representations to emerge in the media.
In conclusion, it can be seen that media representations to often challenge the dominant values of society, as modern representations of ethnic minorities, obese people, teenagers and the disabled are more fair, as audiences can realise that these groups are normal and not deviant. The position of these groups across different platforms breaks the barriers enforced by the hegemonic elite, as obese people are represented as being committed to become more healthy and are constructed to be more determined to succeed, as evident on The Biggest Loser. The emerging range of female music artists gives power to them, as they can challenge dominant values, by subordinating males in their videos or through their lyrics, as signified with Jessie J, Lady Gaga, Kesha and other female artists.
Media representations rarely challenge the dominant values of society nor do they give a voice to those with little power. To what extent is this true for the group or place you have studied? Why?
In the media, hegemonic institutions often create negative representations of groups and places , for example homosexuals and black males are marginalised and demonised in the tabloid press. By marginalising these groups, the elite are enforcing their dominant values and injecting their ideologies into the audience.Yet, specific groups in the media try to challenge the dominant values and representations which are created by the elite. Groups such as obese people, homosexuals, ethnic minorities and women are fairly represented across the media, as seen with soap operas such as Eastenders, Coronation Street, which signify these groups in order to represent a tolerant society. The representation of obese people for example on reality television shows such as The Biggest Loser on ITV could signify to the audience, that this group should be accepted and not marginalised in society.
On one hand, higher institutions do in fact subordinate groups in the media, as signified with teenagers. In the print platform, teenagers are often negatively represented as being deviant and irresponsible. Teenage black males are represented as being violent and as Stan Cohen states, they are 'folk devils who violate societal values of self control'. As well as the print platform, teenage males in general are predominantly involved in crime and are constructed as being deviant on shows such as Waterloo Road and Crimewatch on BBC1. On these shows, teenagers are affiliated with drugs, theft of vehicles and are represented as being manic and troublesome. As well as teenage males, teenage girls are negatively represented as being irresponsible, as they get pregnant at a young age. By representing teenagers in this way, the audience are injected with ideologies that teenagers are irresponsible and immature.
Likewise, the representation of homosexuals and ethnic minorities in the media is often negative, as they are constructed by the elite to be resented. In television shows such as Glee, homosexuals are stereotyped as being flamboyant, but are often subordinated by the dominant white male. Similarly, ethnic minorities are marginalised in the media, as signified with muslims, who are constructed by the hegemonic elite to be radical and evil. The marginalisation of these groups in the media and the misrepresentation of these groups results in the audience having oppositional readings to them and results in these groups being unable to challenge the status quo. The elite therefore inject thier ideologies into the audience that these groups are harmful and gain a collective view that these groups are threatening, when they are often not.
In many hip hop and rap music videos, women are subordinated in order to maintain the status of the dominant male singer. By fetishising through close up shots of areas of the women's body, such as the breasts and legs, the male audience gain scocophilic pleasures out of watching women. The inclusion of women in music videos, who are wearing scantily clad clothing fulfills the male audiences' fantasies, as women are subservient to men in the videos and are constructed as 'eye candy' for the dominant male. Therefore, the male audience could have negotiated readings with the producers, as males are being tempted by glamorous women.
In contrast, it can be argued that women in music videos do have power, which could challenge dominant ideologies, as signified with Lady Gaga's music videos, such as Alejandro, where men are chained and are subservient to the dominant female. As well as Lady Gaga, emerging female music artists challenge dominant hegemonic values, as songs such as 'Do it like a dude' by Jessie J represent women as being dominant and superior to men, and in many ways contains post- feminist values, as it perpetuates the idea that women can be equal to men and do the same jobs as men. The emerging music videos by female music artists do challenge ideologies held by the hegemonic elite, as women in these videos are more dominant and through their songs try to represent themselves more fairly.
Similarly, the representation of obese people and obesity in the media has often been negative, with obese people being marginalised or ridiculed in films such as Austin Powers: Goldmember, Superbad and in soap operas such as Eastenders , where Heather Trott is undesirable due to her appearance. However in the media recently, initiatives have been implemented in order to raise awareness of obesity, with shows such as the Biggest Loser, Supersize vs Superskinny and other shows which are aimed at weight loss. By having fair stereotypes of obese people who desire to be thin, audiences can be more aware and accepting of obese people and understand their emotional pain whilst going through rigid diets. Whilst previous deemed undersirable, shapely women feature on fashion magazines such as Vogue , in contrast to previous years where obese women were ostracized from magazines due to thier appeareance.
As well as obese people, ethnic minorities and disabled people are more prevelant in the media, with television dramas such as Glee and Eastenders encouraging fair representations of these groups. By including these representations, audiences are able to be identify with them and be more acceptable of groups, which were previously marginalised. In many films, ethnic minorities such as black people, British Asians challenge dominant values, as they are dominant lead characters in films, as seen with Bend it Like Beckham, The Book of Eli and other films which have ethnic minorities. The inclusion of these representations of other groups encourages the audience to realise that diversity should be accepted in the media and also should allow accurate representations to emerge in the media.
In conclusion, it can be seen that media representations to often challenge the dominant values of society, as modern representations of ethnic minorities, obese people, teenagers and the disabled are more fair, as audiences can realise that these groups are normal and not deviant. The position of these groups across different platforms breaks the barriers enforced by the hegemonic elite, as obese people are represented as being committed to become more healthy and are constructed to be more determined to succeed, as evident on The Biggest Loser. The emerging range of female music artists gives power to them, as they can challenge dominant values, by subordinating males in their videos or through their lyrics, as signified with Jessie J, Lady Gaga, Kesha and other female artists.
Tuesday 19 April 2011
Media Mock Exam Revision
Task 2- New and Digital Media Essay
"Media institutions are right to feel threatened by new/digital media." Consider this statement and show how media institutions are reacting to technological developments
In today's society, new and digital media has managed to challenge the way traditional media institutions exhibit their products. The emergence of e media has contributed to many institutions competing against each other to advertise and exhibit their products. As well as this, the recent resurgence of smart phones and their apps have provided media institutions with another opportunity to showcase their products and compete with rival institutions, for example mobile phone tariff companies such as T Mobile and Orange compete across apps, as well as on social networking sites. The presence of social networking sites such as Facebook allows media institutions to target their audiences via advertising on side bars and banners on social networking pages.
One way in which media institutions are reacting to technological developments is through social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Myspace. By typing keywords in the search toolbar, institutions target audiences based around their preferences. Notably, companies such as the mobile tariff company Orange may target audiences to purchase one of their packages, which gives them better mobile phone minutes or texts. Media institutions therefore pay Facebook to have their adverts published on profile pages on social networking sites. The presence of the like button at the bottom of each advert on Facebook may increase the advert's influence.
Similarly, media institutions may turn to having websites in order to react to the technological developments, as broadcasting institutions such as the BBC, Channel 4, Five, Sky and other channels allow audiences to watch their favourite shows on media players such as iPlayer. By having this service, media institutions may generate more audience share and receive feedback from audiences on news stories, via comments at the bottom of each news article. The BBC's website fulfills its remit which is to inform, educate and entertain, as audiences can be updated with rolling news, educated on political issues, religion and other issues and also be entertained by watching their programmes on BBC iPlayer. Similarly, conglomerates such as News Corporation may take advantage of technological developments, by having websites, as they can entertain and educate their audience through their products such as 20th Century Fox, National Geographic Channel Worldwide.
In regards to News Corporation, media institutions may react to technological developments by exhibiting their products on latest technology, such as smart phones and PDAs. Interestingly, News Corp decision to launch an exclusive online newspaper on the iPad signifies how media institutions are reacting to technological developments, as News Corp can target a specific market and generate profit through the pay wall. The possible launch of this newspaper may result in competition between newspaper companies, as News Corp's newspapers such as The Sun are available in the form of apps on smartphones such as the Apple iPhone, Blackberry phone and HTC phones. Rival newspaper companies may have to progress onto new technologies such as smart phones and portable devices such as the iPad in order to appeal to their audience, who are updated on latest news on the go. The hegemonic influence of News Corp shows how it has means of mental production, as they can enforce a pay wall , in order for audiences to pay to view their content.
Likewise, media institutions may react to technological developments by having their products published in the form of a smart phone application. Evidently, newspapers such as The Guardian has an iPhone app which allows the audience to be informed of the latest news on the go. Similarly, BBC has a smart phone app which allows adult audiences to be updated with news, as well as entertained with programmes on BBC i Player. By having these apps on smart phones, institutions can generate profit , but also appeal to different audiences, as seen with News Corp's The Sun iPhone app. As well as this, audiences from the UK can also access news apps from the US for example, thus resulting in a global relationship and can be inundated with financial news from the Bloomberg app, as well as New York Times and ABC news which have their own apps on the Apple iPhone.
On the whole it can be seen that media institutions are reacting to technological developments, as institutions such as News Corp have launched an exclusive online newspaper on the iPad which is rejuvenating the newspaper industry and progressing onto newer technological formats. Similarly, media institutions have their own websites where they can inform, educate and entertain audiences and also promote their products on these sites. The emergence of latest technologies such as the smart phone allows media institutions to exhibit their company and provides a mobile service, where audiences can be updated with rolling news, as seen with the BBC News app.
"Media institutions are right to feel threatened by new/digital media." Consider this statement and show how media institutions are reacting to technological developments
In today's society, new and digital media has managed to challenge the way traditional media institutions exhibit their products. The emergence of e media has contributed to many institutions competing against each other to advertise and exhibit their products. As well as this, the recent resurgence of smart phones and their apps have provided media institutions with another opportunity to showcase their products and compete with rival institutions, for example mobile phone tariff companies such as T Mobile and Orange compete across apps, as well as on social networking sites. The presence of social networking sites such as Facebook allows media institutions to target their audiences via advertising on side bars and banners on social networking pages.
One way in which media institutions are reacting to technological developments is through social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Myspace. By typing keywords in the search toolbar, institutions target audiences based around their preferences. Notably, companies such as the mobile tariff company Orange may target audiences to purchase one of their packages, which gives them better mobile phone minutes or texts. Media institutions therefore pay Facebook to have their adverts published on profile pages on social networking sites. The presence of the like button at the bottom of each advert on Facebook may increase the advert's influence.
Similarly, media institutions may turn to having websites in order to react to the technological developments, as broadcasting institutions such as the BBC, Channel 4, Five, Sky and other channels allow audiences to watch their favourite shows on media players such as iPlayer. By having this service, media institutions may generate more audience share and receive feedback from audiences on news stories, via comments at the bottom of each news article. The BBC's website fulfills its remit which is to inform, educate and entertain, as audiences can be updated with rolling news, educated on political issues, religion and other issues and also be entertained by watching their programmes on BBC iPlayer. Similarly, conglomerates such as News Corporation may take advantage of technological developments, by having websites, as they can entertain and educate their audience through their products such as 20th Century Fox, National Geographic Channel Worldwide.
In regards to News Corporation, media institutions may react to technological developments by exhibiting their products on latest technology, such as smart phones and PDAs. Interestingly, News Corp decision to launch an exclusive online newspaper on the iPad signifies how media institutions are reacting to technological developments, as News Corp can target a specific market and generate profit through the pay wall. The possible launch of this newspaper may result in competition between newspaper companies, as News Corp's newspapers such as The Sun are available in the form of apps on smartphones such as the Apple iPhone, Blackberry phone and HTC phones. Rival newspaper companies may have to progress onto new technologies such as smart phones and portable devices such as the iPad in order to appeal to their audience, who are updated on latest news on the go. The hegemonic influence of News Corp shows how it has means of mental production, as they can enforce a pay wall , in order for audiences to pay to view their content.
Likewise, media institutions may react to technological developments by having their products published in the form of a smart phone application. Evidently, newspapers such as The Guardian has an iPhone app which allows the audience to be informed of the latest news on the go. Similarly, BBC has a smart phone app which allows adult audiences to be updated with news, as well as entertained with programmes on BBC i Player. By having these apps on smart phones, institutions can generate profit , but also appeal to different audiences, as seen with News Corp's The Sun iPhone app. As well as this, audiences from the UK can also access news apps from the US for example, thus resulting in a global relationship and can be inundated with financial news from the Bloomberg app, as well as New York Times and ABC news which have their own apps on the Apple iPhone.
On the whole it can be seen that media institutions are reacting to technological developments, as institutions such as News Corp have launched an exclusive online newspaper on the iPad which is rejuvenating the newspaper industry and progressing onto newer technological formats. Similarly, media institutions have their own websites where they can inform, educate and entertain audiences and also promote their products on these sites. The emergence of latest technologies such as the smart phone allows media institutions to exhibit their company and provides a mobile service, where audiences can be updated with rolling news, as seen with the BBC News app.
Thursday 14 April 2011
Media Mock Exam Revision
3) To what extent has new and digital media given younger audiences the opportunities to shape their own media representations? (12 marks)
The emergence of new and digital media has allowed audiences to shape their own media representations, as platforms such as e media and broadcast allow younger audiences to be more plural in the way they represent themselves. Through social networking sites for example, teenagers can represent themselves and challenge beliefs through discussion pages . Yet it can be argued that younger audiences are still misrepresented in the media, as teenage boys in particular are objectified as being 'folk devils' who often 'violate societal values of self control'. Similarly, younger audiences are influenced by the media in negative ways, for example teenagers may play video games and be injected with ideologies of violence or may watch rap videos and adopt a 'gangster' attitude.
On one hand, it can be argued that new and digital media has allowed younger audiences to shape their own media representations, as they can represent themselves more accurately through social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook. The younger audiences can join discussion groups and represent themselves more positively.
The emergence of new and digital media has allowed audiences to shape their own media representations, as platforms such as e media and broadcast allow younger audiences to be more plural in the way they represent themselves. Through social networking sites for example, teenagers can represent themselves and challenge beliefs through discussion pages . Yet it can be argued that younger audiences are still misrepresented in the media, as teenage boys in particular are objectified as being 'folk devils' who often 'violate societal values of self control'. Similarly, younger audiences are influenced by the media in negative ways, for example teenagers may play video games and be injected with ideologies of violence or may watch rap videos and adopt a 'gangster' attitude.
On one hand, it can be argued that new and digital media has allowed younger audiences to shape their own media representations, as they can represent themselves more accurately through social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook. The younger audiences can join discussion groups and represent themselves more positively.
Wednesday 13 April 2011
Media Mock Revision
2) Consider the view that the current representation of teenagers is simply another 'moral panic'. (12 marks)
The representation of teenagers in the trailer for the video game 'Bully' can be seen to be a moral panic, as the game perpetuates the stereotype of teenage boys to be rebellious and deviant. The representation of the protagonist may result in audiences having oppositional readings to the text, as teenage boys who play the game may be injected with ideologies that creating mayhem in school is acceptable. As well as this, teenagers in the game can be referred to as folk devils, as stated by Stan Cohen, as the game condones violence and havoc in a school setting. The title 'Bully' connotes rebellion and disorder and may allow audiences such as adults to have negative views towards the game, as it promotes disorder and may result in the teenage male audience being dumbed down by playing the game.
Similarly, the trailer for the Channel 4 programme 'Skins' constructs negative representations of teenagers, and can be signified as a moral panic, as teenagers indulge in immoral behaviour such as smoking , drinking alcohol, doing drugs and other unethical behaviour. The fact that the producers construct these representations of teenagers may result in a moral panic, as an adult audience may feel that the programme promotes teenagers to be antisocial and irrational. The montage of teenagers smoking, drinking alcohol and having same sex relationships may result in adults gaining negative views about teenagers , as they can be corrupted by society and be influenced by the media. The adult audience may also have oppositional readings towards the text, as the teenage audience who predominately watch the show are being dumbed down, as it fails to teach them about the risks of smoking, alcohol and under age relationships.
However, certain representations of teenagers in the media, such as Glee and Eastenders can not be seen to be a moral panic, as these alternative representations of teenagers signify how teenagers are not violent and deviant. In Eastenders, Tamwar Masood is constructed as a stereotypical teenage Muslim boy who is an academic and is family orientated. Therefore, this alternative representation shows the audience that teenagers are successful and not entirely bad. The hit US television drama, Glee also constructs positive representations of teenagers who are willing to become confident through music. By having these alternative representations, audiences are urged to have positive views towards teenagers, who desire to be successful and not deviant, as seen in the trailers for Skins and Bully.
The representation of teenagers in the trailer for the video game 'Bully' can be seen to be a moral panic, as the game perpetuates the stereotype of teenage boys to be rebellious and deviant. The representation of the protagonist may result in audiences having oppositional readings to the text, as teenage boys who play the game may be injected with ideologies that creating mayhem in school is acceptable. As well as this, teenagers in the game can be referred to as folk devils, as stated by Stan Cohen, as the game condones violence and havoc in a school setting. The title 'Bully' connotes rebellion and disorder and may allow audiences such as adults to have negative views towards the game, as it promotes disorder and may result in the teenage male audience being dumbed down by playing the game.
Similarly, the trailer for the Channel 4 programme 'Skins' constructs negative representations of teenagers, and can be signified as a moral panic, as teenagers indulge in immoral behaviour such as smoking , drinking alcohol, doing drugs and other unethical behaviour. The fact that the producers construct these representations of teenagers may result in a moral panic, as an adult audience may feel that the programme promotes teenagers to be antisocial and irrational. The montage of teenagers smoking, drinking alcohol and having same sex relationships may result in adults gaining negative views about teenagers , as they can be corrupted by society and be influenced by the media. The adult audience may also have oppositional readings towards the text, as the teenage audience who predominately watch the show are being dumbed down, as it fails to teach them about the risks of smoking, alcohol and under age relationships.
However, certain representations of teenagers in the media, such as Glee and Eastenders can not be seen to be a moral panic, as these alternative representations of teenagers signify how teenagers are not violent and deviant. In Eastenders, Tamwar Masood is constructed as a stereotypical teenage Muslim boy who is an academic and is family orientated. Therefore, this alternative representation shows the audience that teenagers are successful and not entirely bad. The hit US television drama, Glee also constructs positive representations of teenagers who are willing to become confident through music. By having these alternative representations, audiences are urged to have positive views towards teenagers, who desire to be successful and not deviant, as seen in the trailers for Skins and Bully.
Media Studies Mock Revision
Task 1
1) Compare and contrast the representation of teenagers in the two texts.
(8 marks)
The representation of teenagers in the video game trailer for Bully is negative, as teenage boys in particular are objectified as being social deviants, as signified by the way the main character is dressed, with his shirt tucked out and by the way he talks. The use of medium shots of the 'bully' harassing school kids and creating havoc in the science laboratory injects messages into the audience that teenage boys are wild and troublesome. In many ways, an adult audience may have oppositional readings to the text, as it condones trouble and violence. By playing the game, teenage boys are injected with ideologies that creating havoc and being rebellious is acceptable. The teenage male audience for this game may reenact scenes from the game, such as the character using a slingshot at students and using the fire extinguisher at other students in order to harass them.
Likewise, in the trailer for Skins, teenagers are objectified as being rebellious, as signified by the montage which includes close up shots of teenagers smoking, having same sex relationships. In effect, the trailer may result in a moral panic, as adults may have oppositional readings to what the programme Skins actually mediates, as teenagers may be influenced by what they see and can adopt habits such as smoking, which could be harmful to their health. In many ways, the trailer may result in different audiences such as adults gaining negative views towards teenagers, as they are constructed to be rebellious and folk devils , as coined by Stan Cohen. In contrast to the trailer for Bully, the producers of Skins may be educating other audiences on teenage life and construct fairer representations of teenagers in order to signify how teenage life if about experimenting and being troublesome.
Across both texts, teenagers are negatively represented as being rebellious and deviant, as the trailer for the video game Bully constructs teenagers as being troublesome and deviant, as they can be liberal in what they do , for example the protagonist can use a fire extinguisher to harass other students and can cause mayhem in classrooms. Similarly, the trailer for Skins perpetuates a negative representation of teenagers, as they are more rebellious in the way they act and the fact that they can smoke, do drugs and have same sex relationships at a young age. The representation of teenagers in both texts may result in a moral panic, as adults may feel that teenagers are corrupted by society and are injected with ideologies that experimenting with drugs, causing mayhem and having relationships with members of the same sex is acceptable.
1) Compare and contrast the representation of teenagers in the two texts.
(8 marks)
The representation of teenagers in the video game trailer for Bully is negative, as teenage boys in particular are objectified as being social deviants, as signified by the way the main character is dressed, with his shirt tucked out and by the way he talks. The use of medium shots of the 'bully' harassing school kids and creating havoc in the science laboratory injects messages into the audience that teenage boys are wild and troublesome. In many ways, an adult audience may have oppositional readings to the text, as it condones trouble and violence. By playing the game, teenage boys are injected with ideologies that creating havoc and being rebellious is acceptable. The teenage male audience for this game may reenact scenes from the game, such as the character using a slingshot at students and using the fire extinguisher at other students in order to harass them.
Likewise, in the trailer for Skins, teenagers are objectified as being rebellious, as signified by the montage which includes close up shots of teenagers smoking, having same sex relationships. In effect, the trailer may result in a moral panic, as adults may have oppositional readings to what the programme Skins actually mediates, as teenagers may be influenced by what they see and can adopt habits such as smoking, which could be harmful to their health. In many ways, the trailer may result in different audiences such as adults gaining negative views towards teenagers, as they are constructed to be rebellious and folk devils , as coined by Stan Cohen. In contrast to the trailer for Bully, the producers of Skins may be educating other audiences on teenage life and construct fairer representations of teenagers in order to signify how teenage life if about experimenting and being troublesome.
Across both texts, teenagers are negatively represented as being rebellious and deviant, as the trailer for the video game Bully constructs teenagers as being troublesome and deviant, as they can be liberal in what they do , for example the protagonist can use a fire extinguisher to harass other students and can cause mayhem in classrooms. Similarly, the trailer for Skins perpetuates a negative representation of teenagers, as they are more rebellious in the way they act and the fact that they can smoke, do drugs and have same sex relationships at a young age. The representation of teenagers in both texts may result in a moral panic, as adults may feel that teenagers are corrupted by society and are injected with ideologies that experimenting with drugs, causing mayhem and having relationships with members of the same sex is acceptable.
Tuesday 12 April 2011
Media Studies Mock Revision
Media Issues and Debates
Post 9/11 and the media
What are the issues raised regarding the representation of ethnic minority groups?
In the media, ethnic minorities are marginalised by the hegemonic elite across platforms such as broadcast, print and the e media. In many television shows, ethnic minorities are constructed as token characters, such as Glee, Eastenders and often are subordinated in order to signify the dominant white male character, as seen with many American teenage films, such as High School Musical, Juno etc.
In regards to the print platform, many right wing newspapers such as the Daily Mail, The Daily Express often stigmatise and marginalise ethnic minorities, as evident in the Daily Mail's article 'Black drug offenders are 'eight times more likely to be jailed than whites'. This article creates a moral panic in the audience, as they are inject with ideologies that black men are dangerous and are often misrepresented as being criminals. Similar articles representing black men in a similar way may cause the audience to gain certain views about black people being criminals, most of which may be false , hence this group may be signified as folk devils who violate societal values of self control, as coined by Stan Cohen.
Likewise, ethnic minorities are also objectified in television programmes such as 'Crimewatch', where black men, pakistanis and other ethnic groups are represented as being deviant and troublesome. By marginalising the ethnic minorities in this way, the hegemonic elite are able to inject ideologies into the audience that ethnic minorities are deviants. Similarly, ethnic minorities on this show are accurately represented as being criminals, in order to cause fear in the audience, who may have oppositional readings to criminals and a negotiated reading with the producers of the show, as they are trying to detain these social deviants.
In the same way, the media has become Islamaphobic following the 9/11 attacks and has therefore subordinated muslims as being 'folk devils' as suggested by Stan Cohen. Across the print and broadcast platform, muslims are represented as being evil , as signified in the film Four Lions, where the four muslims desire to be suicide bombers and are driven to cause destruction. Evidently, in tabloid newspapers such as The Daily Mail, The Evening Standard and the Sun, muslims are demonised and subordinated by the elite. The fact that these newspapers are mainly right wing could signify how the white elite want to subordinate this ethnic group in order to stay in power.
Post 9/11 and the media
What are the issues raised regarding the representation of ethnic minority groups?
In the media, ethnic minorities are marginalised by the hegemonic elite across platforms such as broadcast, print and the e media. In many television shows, ethnic minorities are constructed as token characters, such as Glee, Eastenders and often are subordinated in order to signify the dominant white male character, as seen with many American teenage films, such as High School Musical, Juno etc.
In regards to the print platform, many right wing newspapers such as the Daily Mail, The Daily Express often stigmatise and marginalise ethnic minorities, as evident in the Daily Mail's article 'Black drug offenders are 'eight times more likely to be jailed than whites'. This article creates a moral panic in the audience, as they are inject with ideologies that black men are dangerous and are often misrepresented as being criminals. Similar articles representing black men in a similar way may cause the audience to gain certain views about black people being criminals, most of which may be false , hence this group may be signified as folk devils who violate societal values of self control, as coined by Stan Cohen.
Likewise, ethnic minorities are also objectified in television programmes such as 'Crimewatch', where black men, pakistanis and other ethnic groups are represented as being deviant and troublesome. By marginalising the ethnic minorities in this way, the hegemonic elite are able to inject ideologies into the audience that ethnic minorities are deviants. Similarly, ethnic minorities on this show are accurately represented as being criminals, in order to cause fear in the audience, who may have oppositional readings to criminals and a negotiated reading with the producers of the show, as they are trying to detain these social deviants.
In the same way, the media has become Islamaphobic following the 9/11 attacks and has therefore subordinated muslims as being 'folk devils' as suggested by Stan Cohen. Across the print and broadcast platform, muslims are represented as being evil , as signified in the film Four Lions, where the four muslims desire to be suicide bombers and are driven to cause destruction. Evidently, in tabloid newspapers such as The Daily Mail, The Evening Standard and the Sun, muslims are demonised and subordinated by the elite. The fact that these newspapers are mainly right wing could signify how the white elite want to subordinate this ethnic group in order to stay in power.
Tuesday 5 April 2011
Section A Exam Questions
3. There are always concerns about new technology. In your view, what are the possible benefits and problems attached to social networking, particularly on the Internet? ( 12 marks)
In regards to social networking on the Internet, there are many benefits and problems which make social networking a balanced platform in the media. Moreover it can be convincingly argued that social networking poses benefits to the audience, as they can make friends, join pages and groups and can interact with the content, such as question polls and can be liberal in what they post, comment and do on their social networking profiles. Yet, social networking does also have its problems, in that paedophiles and rapists can stalk young girls and prey on children. As well as this, other concerns may be that accounts such as Facebook accounts can be hacked and fraud could occur. Many sceptics of social network also argue that it dumbs down the audience and is a place where users mindlessly stare at a screen for long periods of time and are narcissistic, as they take pictures of themselves and take pride in themself.
Firstly, one such problem of social networking would that it is a platform for paedophiles and rapists to prey on their victims, as users openly share their contact information therefore allowing paedophiles and rapists to target young girls who are vulnerable . As seen with cases where grown men have stalk young girls into having sex on sites such as Facebook.
Another problem surrounding social networking would be that it allows fraudsters and hackers to infiltrate users' information, as public Facebook accounts which have less security allow anyone to have access to the users' contact details, such as name, email address, location and date of birth. In effect, this breach of security may result in a moral panic, as the audience would be unable to trust sites, where the security is not not safe.
Most importantly, it can also be argued that social networking is a social problem, as parents may have oppositional readings to these sites, as children may be hooked to these sites and may spend a lengthy amount of time on Facebook for example. By spending a long time on Facebook, the audience may feel that social networking is dumbing down audiences such as teenagers, as they are more concerned with what their friends are commenting and actually spend less time reading books or studying.
In other ways, social networking is a problem for young children, as they may be susceptible to cyber bullying and could be taunted and bullied online. The bullies may insult their victims through hateful messages and embarrassing secrets and could therefore be a concern for children and parents,who may feel that social networking sites are unsafe.
In contrast, social networking has its advantages, as the audience can interact with other users and create their own account where they can comment on what they are thinking and can send pictures, videos and URL links to friends. As well as this, social networking is also effective, as the audience are able to interact with celebrities, as evident with Twitter. Therefore, the barrier between celebrities and the audience is lifted, thus making the relationship more accessible. Social networking may be beneficial to the audience, as they can gain an insight into themselves by joining groups and pages which may teach them something. The audience can also gain greater self esteem , as they can join groups and comment on what they think, feel etc.
Alongside this, the audience can also benefit from social networking, as they can form relationships by joining dating groups and can attend events where they can meet new people. The audience can also follow celebrities on Twitter and converse with them , thus making the celebrity/audience relationship more close. As well as this, the audience may use social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter for surveillance , as well as communication, as they can chat to friends via Facebook chat and can also post up comments and chat to people across the world. The audience can also benefit by liking and joining fan pages of news companies such as The BBC and Sky Sports on Fcaebook and can follow these pages and be inundated with the latest news and sport headlines. Moreover, the audience can also use social networking for diversion, as they can play games on Facebook, for example Mindjolt Games and can play endorsed games such as Mafia Wars which has proven to be a global gaming hit.
By having a Facebook, Twitter or Myspace account, audiences can talk to and interact with users around the world and share similar interests with people around the world. By having photos, videos, and comments, the audience can also see what other users have on their profiles and can emulate them and join different groups and like different pages.
Notably, social networking sites has many benefits which may be useful to business and companies , as Facebook, Twitter and Myspace allows companies to sell and advertise their products. Evidently, Orange may advertise their mobile phone contract packages on the Facebook homepage, in order to attract a teenage demographic. As well as this, other companies may use keywords which have been entered by the audience in their profiles to target specific products at the audience, such as football boots. The advertising on Facebook may often lead to competing interests from different companies who may try to compete to sell their product and gain ad space on sites and become recognised.
In regards to social networking on the Internet, there are many benefits and problems which make social networking a balanced platform in the media. Moreover it can be convincingly argued that social networking poses benefits to the audience, as they can make friends, join pages and groups and can interact with the content, such as question polls and can be liberal in what they post, comment and do on their social networking profiles. Yet, social networking does also have its problems, in that paedophiles and rapists can stalk young girls and prey on children. As well as this, other concerns may be that accounts such as Facebook accounts can be hacked and fraud could occur. Many sceptics of social network also argue that it dumbs down the audience and is a place where users mindlessly stare at a screen for long periods of time and are narcissistic, as they take pictures of themselves and take pride in themself.
Firstly, one such problem of social networking would that it is a platform for paedophiles and rapists to prey on their victims, as users openly share their contact information therefore allowing paedophiles and rapists to target young girls who are vulnerable . As seen with cases where grown men have stalk young girls into having sex on sites such as Facebook.
Another problem surrounding social networking would be that it allows fraudsters and hackers to infiltrate users' information, as public Facebook accounts which have less security allow anyone to have access to the users' contact details, such as name, email address, location and date of birth. In effect, this breach of security may result in a moral panic, as the audience would be unable to trust sites, where the security is not not safe.
Most importantly, it can also be argued that social networking is a social problem, as parents may have oppositional readings to these sites, as children may be hooked to these sites and may spend a lengthy amount of time on Facebook for example. By spending a long time on Facebook, the audience may feel that social networking is dumbing down audiences such as teenagers, as they are more concerned with what their friends are commenting and actually spend less time reading books or studying.
In other ways, social networking is a problem for young children, as they may be susceptible to cyber bullying and could be taunted and bullied online. The bullies may insult their victims through hateful messages and embarrassing secrets and could therefore be a concern for children and parents,who may feel that social networking sites are unsafe.
In contrast, social networking has its advantages, as the audience can interact with other users and create their own account where they can comment on what they are thinking and can send pictures, videos and URL links to friends. As well as this, social networking is also effective, as the audience are able to interact with celebrities, as evident with Twitter. Therefore, the barrier between celebrities and the audience is lifted, thus making the relationship more accessible. Social networking may be beneficial to the audience, as they can gain an insight into themselves by joining groups and pages which may teach them something. The audience can also gain greater self esteem , as they can join groups and comment on what they think, feel etc.
Alongside this, the audience can also benefit from social networking, as they can form relationships by joining dating groups and can attend events where they can meet new people. The audience can also follow celebrities on Twitter and converse with them , thus making the celebrity/audience relationship more close. As well as this, the audience may use social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter for surveillance , as well as communication, as they can chat to friends via Facebook chat and can also post up comments and chat to people across the world. The audience can also benefit by liking and joining fan pages of news companies such as The BBC and Sky Sports on Fcaebook and can follow these pages and be inundated with the latest news and sport headlines. Moreover, the audience can also use social networking for diversion, as they can play games on Facebook, for example Mindjolt Games and can play endorsed games such as Mafia Wars which has proven to be a global gaming hit.
By having a Facebook, Twitter or Myspace account, audiences can talk to and interact with users around the world and share similar interests with people around the world. By having photos, videos, and comments, the audience can also see what other users have on their profiles and can emulate them and join different groups and like different pages.
Notably, social networking sites has many benefits which may be useful to business and companies , as Facebook, Twitter and Myspace allows companies to sell and advertise their products. Evidently, Orange may advertise their mobile phone contract packages on the Facebook homepage, in order to attract a teenage demographic. As well as this, other companies may use keywords which have been entered by the audience in their profiles to target specific products at the audience, such as football boots. The advertising on Facebook may often lead to competing interests from different companies who may try to compete to sell their product and gain ad space on sites and become recognised.
Section A Exam Questions
2. Consider the view that the current press treatment of teenagers is simply another 'moral panic' (12 marks)
In both of the texts, the press often treat teenagers in a negative way, as The Metro front page features a moral panic, as teenagers have access to social networking sites such as Myspace and UGC sites such as Youtube, whereby they can reach to a wider teenage audience. However, the Daily Mail article treats teenagers in a less threatening way, as it explores how teenagers who join gangs are often neglected by their families and therefore resort to joining gangs in order to 'fit into the crowd' and be associated with people who understand them.
The front page of the Metro which was published on 21 February 2007 signifies the treatment of teenagers as a moral panic, as they use the Internet to advertise and recruit members into their gang. By posting videos of teenagers with firearms, drugs and fast cars, other audiences may be injected with ideologies that teenagers are a 'threat' and a 'menace' to society , as they are embedded with pluralistic and liberal values and are part of a moral panic, as they have the resource of the Internet to recruit new members, which may lead to a long term concern. Whats more, the teenagers are also more unethical, as they use violence to intimidate rivals and other teenagers and actively endorse violence. In relation to when the article was published , the media was rife with news related to gun and knife crime. In effect, a moral panic was created which advocated the ban of such guns and dangerous weapons and teenagers in particular were victims of knife and gun related attacks. In conjunction to this, the article stigmatizes teenagers for condoning violence and signifies how teenagers in gangs are threatening to the social order, as 'innocent' and 'naive' children can be involved in gangs and be trapped in gang warfare and live a life of violence.
In contrast, the Daily Mail article states that the treatment of teenagers is not a moral panic, as they themselves are a victim to a society which injects ideologies into them. By being influenced by crime films, TV programmes and black gangsta music, teenagers are influenced by what they see in music videos , as they get the impression that being a gangster is fashionable, therefore copy the style of a gangster as well as using slang. The fact that teenagers are in a group may make audiences deem them to be in a gang whereby they are violent. Moreover, it can be argued that the press treatment of teenagers is more than a moral panic, as the media is mainly to blame alongside family life and non existent role models which cause teenagers to end up joining gangs . The influx of ideologies enforced onto teenagers may result in them being desensitised and being unable to challenge the ideologies which are put onto them by the media. The lack of role models results in teenagers being susceptible to crime, as they may emulate relatives and be corrupted or dumbed down by what they see on television.
In both of the texts, the press often treat teenagers in a negative way, as The Metro front page features a moral panic, as teenagers have access to social networking sites such as Myspace and UGC sites such as Youtube, whereby they can reach to a wider teenage audience. However, the Daily Mail article treats teenagers in a less threatening way, as it explores how teenagers who join gangs are often neglected by their families and therefore resort to joining gangs in order to 'fit into the crowd' and be associated with people who understand them.
The front page of the Metro which was published on 21 February 2007 signifies the treatment of teenagers as a moral panic, as they use the Internet to advertise and recruit members into their gang. By posting videos of teenagers with firearms, drugs and fast cars, other audiences may be injected with ideologies that teenagers are a 'threat' and a 'menace' to society , as they are embedded with pluralistic and liberal values and are part of a moral panic, as they have the resource of the Internet to recruit new members, which may lead to a long term concern. Whats more, the teenagers are also more unethical, as they use violence to intimidate rivals and other teenagers and actively endorse violence. In relation to when the article was published , the media was rife with news related to gun and knife crime. In effect, a moral panic was created which advocated the ban of such guns and dangerous weapons and teenagers in particular were victims of knife and gun related attacks. In conjunction to this, the article stigmatizes teenagers for condoning violence and signifies how teenagers in gangs are threatening to the social order, as 'innocent' and 'naive' children can be involved in gangs and be trapped in gang warfare and live a life of violence.
In contrast, the Daily Mail article states that the treatment of teenagers is not a moral panic, as they themselves are a victim to a society which injects ideologies into them. By being influenced by crime films, TV programmes and black gangsta music, teenagers are influenced by what they see in music videos , as they get the impression that being a gangster is fashionable, therefore copy the style of a gangster as well as using slang. The fact that teenagers are in a group may make audiences deem them to be in a gang whereby they are violent. Moreover, it can be argued that the press treatment of teenagers is more than a moral panic, as the media is mainly to blame alongside family life and non existent role models which cause teenagers to end up joining gangs . The influx of ideologies enforced onto teenagers may result in them being desensitised and being unable to challenge the ideologies which are put onto them by the media. The lack of role models results in teenagers being susceptible to crime, as they may emulate relatives and be corrupted or dumbed down by what they see on television.
Section A Exam Questions
- Compare and contrast the two texts with particular reference to the representations of teenagers (8 marks)
Likewise, in The Daily Mail website, teenagers are represented as being influenced by violence, yet resent the term of being in a 'gang'. By being influenced by 'black gangsta music' and TV programmes such as 'Crime Watch', teenagers may be injected with the idea that being a 'gangster' is acceptable, as they can 'fit into a crowd' and can be expressive. However, audiences such as parents may prevent their children from entering gangs, as they can be prone to violence and be involved in conflict with rival gangs. The mention of 'gang culture' in the media, as evident in The Metro front page results in a wider moral panic, as parents may feel that the media is injecting teenagers with ideologies that being a gangster is cool and that wearing a distinct style of clothing makes you 'tough'.
Across both texts, teenagers are negatively represented as being socially deviant, as the Metro front page signifies how teenagers are influenced by teenagers from gangs to join their gang and are persuaded to be involved in a gang whereby they can be liberal, for example take drugs and be violent. Similarly, the Daily Mail article perpetuates the view that teenagers are negatively represented, due to a lock of authoritative role models and a disruptive family life. Therefore, teenagers are likely to join gangs , as they can 'fit into a crowd' and be understood by gang members. The mention of videos of gangs on Myspace and Youtube creates a moral panic, as audiences feel that teenagers are more violent and disrupt the status quo, as they are liberal and can appeal to teenagers on Yotube, thus signifying how social networking sites and UGC sites can be an outlet for gangs to recruit.
Essay Question
Media representations favour those with power at the expense of those without. To what extent do you think this statement is true?
In the media, the higher institutions create media representations which favour them in order to keep their positions stronger. Generally, media representations of teenagers in the media have often been constructed as being negative, especially with black males who are often linked with violence. Similarly, the media misrepresents ethnic minorities across platforms such as television and print , as they may pose a threat to the elite. By subordinating these representations, more dominant representations of white males for example may favour the elite. Evidently, obese people are another example of representations who are marginalised in society, yet gradually more representations of obese people are evident in the media, for example Glee includes dominant characters who are obese.
In regards to teenagers, media representations in the tabloid press and on the broadcast platform favour the elite, as they are often represented as being deviant and troublesome, as seen in the BBC television drama "Waterloo Road". The show gives a supposed 'accurate' representation of teenagers in a school setting and constructs teenagers boys such as Kyle Stack in particular to be deviant and troublesome. Therefore, these representations favour those with power, as they can inject ideologies into the audience that teenagers may disrupt the social order and be menaces to society.
In accordance, black teenage males are subject to being constructed as social deviants in the media, especially on the broadcast and print platforms. The negative representations of black males on television shows such as 'CrimeWatch' and in newspapers such as The Daily Mail and free sheets such as The Metro and The Evening Standard signifies that this group are threatening and creates a moral panic that convinces the audience to believe that teenage black males are deviant in society.
Likewise, the representation of homosexuals in the media favours those with power, as they are often marginalised in the media by the elite, in newspapers such as The Daily Mail. The representation of homosexuals in this newspaper is often misconstructed, as the elite try to subordinate other groups in order to remain powerful. In television shows such as 'Ugly Betty', homosexuals are often represented as being flamboyant, bitchy and melodramatic, as evident with Mark who is PA to Wilhemina Slater. By marginalising these characters, the elite would want to keep their position at the top and would want to instill ideologies into the audience that homosexuals are evil/ worthless in society.
In accordance to this, immigrants may also be marginalised by those in power, as the audience would be injected with the ideology that immigrants are threatening, as they steal people's jobs and are given accommodation first when they arrive in the UK. The media representation of immigrants is often mediated as being evil and threatening to society, as evident in the Daily Mail, where immigrants are victimised by the press for stealing British people's jobs. Therefore, the audience would immediately resent immigrants without necessarily understanding their situations and reasons why they have entered the UK.
The media representations of obese people favour those with power at the expense of those without, as obese people are victimised and resented particularly in the print platform, as fashion magazines such as Vogue and lads mags such as Zoo and Nuts don't include shapely/obese women in their magazines, as they feel that they are 'ugly' and 'undesirable'. In regards to Cohen, 'obese people are folk devils who violate societal values of self control', therefore media institutions may have a right to construct obese people as being undesirable and could marginalise this group as folk devils. By marginalising these characters , the powerful elite can have more of an influence on what the audience sees and injects messages into the audience that obesity and obese people are a concern to society.
In contrast, obese people can be alternatively represented in the media by the higher institutions, for example James Corden is one of the main characters in the BBC Drama 'Gavin and Stacey and is accepted for his appearance. Likewise, in Glee, Mercedes Jones is accepted for her weight and offers hope for other obese people to be successful in the media. Moreover, reality shows such as 'The Biggest Loser' and 'Supersize vs Superskinny' on ITV perpetuate the fair representation of obese people who desire to be accepted for wanting to be slim and are mediated in the show as being determined to succeed with their goal of losing weight.
Similarly, the representation of women in music videos tends to favour the elite, as particularly in hip hop and rap videos, women are objectified and subordinated in order to represent the lead male singer as dominant. Evidently, in Rihanna's 'Rude Boy' video, she is dressed in short, revealing clothing and is jirating around the man thus connoting her sexual desires. As well as this, her body is fetished in order to arouse the male's scopophilic pleasures, as the video and others by artists such as 50 cent and Lil Wayne feature women wearing scantily clad clothing and are dancing around the male. Generally, most of these videos subordinate women in order to assert the dominance of the male audience.
On the whole, media representations do, in fact favour those with power at the expense of those without, as representations of teenagers, homosexuals and immigrants are often mediated in the tabloid press, as well as other platforms as being deviant and threatening to the status quo. By marginalising these groups in the media, the elite inject messages into the audience that these groups are threatening and will affect society in a negative way. However, alternative representations of these groups in the media, for example obese people in reality television shows do give power to those without, as the alternative representations may widen the audience's understanding and make the audience realise that these groups pose no threat and should therefore be accepted in society.
In the media, the higher institutions create media representations which favour them in order to keep their positions stronger. Generally, media representations of teenagers in the media have often been constructed as being negative, especially with black males who are often linked with violence. Similarly, the media misrepresents ethnic minorities across platforms such as television and print , as they may pose a threat to the elite. By subordinating these representations, more dominant representations of white males for example may favour the elite. Evidently, obese people are another example of representations who are marginalised in society, yet gradually more representations of obese people are evident in the media, for example Glee includes dominant characters who are obese.
In regards to teenagers, media representations in the tabloid press and on the broadcast platform favour the elite, as they are often represented as being deviant and troublesome, as seen in the BBC television drama "Waterloo Road". The show gives a supposed 'accurate' representation of teenagers in a school setting and constructs teenagers boys such as Kyle Stack in particular to be deviant and troublesome. Therefore, these representations favour those with power, as they can inject ideologies into the audience that teenagers may disrupt the social order and be menaces to society.
In accordance, black teenage males are subject to being constructed as social deviants in the media, especially on the broadcast and print platforms. The negative representations of black males on television shows such as 'CrimeWatch' and in newspapers such as The Daily Mail and free sheets such as The Metro and The Evening Standard signifies that this group are threatening and creates a moral panic that convinces the audience to believe that teenage black males are deviant in society.
Likewise, the representation of homosexuals in the media favours those with power, as they are often marginalised in the media by the elite, in newspapers such as The Daily Mail. The representation of homosexuals in this newspaper is often misconstructed, as the elite try to subordinate other groups in order to remain powerful. In television shows such as 'Ugly Betty', homosexuals are often represented as being flamboyant, bitchy and melodramatic, as evident with Mark who is PA to Wilhemina Slater. By marginalising these characters, the elite would want to keep their position at the top and would want to instill ideologies into the audience that homosexuals are evil/ worthless in society.
In accordance to this, immigrants may also be marginalised by those in power, as the audience would be injected with the ideology that immigrants are threatening, as they steal people's jobs and are given accommodation first when they arrive in the UK. The media representation of immigrants is often mediated as being evil and threatening to society, as evident in the Daily Mail, where immigrants are victimised by the press for stealing British people's jobs. Therefore, the audience would immediately resent immigrants without necessarily understanding their situations and reasons why they have entered the UK.
The media representations of obese people favour those with power at the expense of those without, as obese people are victimised and resented particularly in the print platform, as fashion magazines such as Vogue and lads mags such as Zoo and Nuts don't include shapely/obese women in their magazines, as they feel that they are 'ugly' and 'undesirable'. In regards to Cohen, 'obese people are folk devils who violate societal values of self control', therefore media institutions may have a right to construct obese people as being undesirable and could marginalise this group as folk devils. By marginalising these characters , the powerful elite can have more of an influence on what the audience sees and injects messages into the audience that obesity and obese people are a concern to society.
In contrast, obese people can be alternatively represented in the media by the higher institutions, for example James Corden is one of the main characters in the BBC Drama 'Gavin and Stacey and is accepted for his appearance. Likewise, in Glee, Mercedes Jones is accepted for her weight and offers hope for other obese people to be successful in the media. Moreover, reality shows such as 'The Biggest Loser' and 'Supersize vs Superskinny' on ITV perpetuate the fair representation of obese people who desire to be accepted for wanting to be slim and are mediated in the show as being determined to succeed with their goal of losing weight.
Similarly, the representation of women in music videos tends to favour the elite, as particularly in hip hop and rap videos, women are objectified and subordinated in order to represent the lead male singer as dominant. Evidently, in Rihanna's 'Rude Boy' video, she is dressed in short, revealing clothing and is jirating around the man thus connoting her sexual desires. As well as this, her body is fetished in order to arouse the male's scopophilic pleasures, as the video and others by artists such as 50 cent and Lil Wayne feature women wearing scantily clad clothing and are dancing around the male. Generally, most of these videos subordinate women in order to assert the dominance of the male audience.
On the whole, media representations do, in fact favour those with power at the expense of those without, as representations of teenagers, homosexuals and immigrants are often mediated in the tabloid press, as well as other platforms as being deviant and threatening to the status quo. By marginalising these groups in the media, the elite inject messages into the audience that these groups are threatening and will affect society in a negative way. However, alternative representations of these groups in the media, for example obese people in reality television shows do give power to those without, as the alternative representations may widen the audience's understanding and make the audience realise that these groups pose no threat and should therefore be accepted in society.
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