The media is often blamed for issues and challenges in society, demonstrating its power and influence over people. From defining beauty and posting what is “on trend” to challenging authorities about the safety of vaccinations or events leading up to a mass shooting, we are exposed to and rely on media’s messages as a sort of societal compass. For this discussion, let’s consider one such avenue that media seems to guide culture, how to perceive men and women. To further narrow the conversation, we’ll specifically consider these perceptions as presented through the filter of advertisements.
Consider and respond to at least two of the following queries in an original post. Where possible, provide an example or illustration to support your contributions.
If the media dictates (or at least influences) our tastes and responses in life, who authors those media messages? Essentially, is there a chicken and egg analogy to be made?
Conversely, might those opposed to the prevailing media biases combat those messages with media? Does this infer, then, that culture is led by those with means (media means)? Yes, this does sound like an elite, privileged conspiracy theory…but, argue it as you may.
Censorship is, by most who enjoy freedom of speech, a limit on academic thought, artistic expression, civilized progression, and technological advancement. However, given the power that media seems to hold over the masses, should there be a filter, limit, or other censorship or categorization to media to allow parents and individuals to control their exposure to media’s messages? If not, explain. If yes or perhaps, how might that be accomplished? What might that look like, or how would it operate?
Regardless of topic, such as “women and men,” share a subject and examples of its presentation by media through the years. How has it been represented? Has the media filter, seemingly at least, been an influence on the public’s reception of that matter?
APA citations are required only in the original response.
