This document discusses whether media reflects existing societal views or shapes society, focusing on three mediums: web/internet, television, and newspapers. It asks the reader to consider how these mediums portray messages in ads, stories, movies, and programs, and whether media can have both unifying and divisive effects by fostering diversity or stereotypes. The reader is assigned a 400-600 word research paper on this topic, citing at least two additional sources and discussing the roles of both media and consumers.

1. Does media reflect society or shape it? Consider at least three
different mediums: web, TV, newspaper, movies, radio. This is
not about the technology, so ignore smart phones, email, PDAs
and the like. Focus on the messages we get every day in ads, in
stories, in movies, in TV programs, and on radio such as talk
shows.
You
must
discuss this in terms of the three markets and focus on the
audience’s role in reflecting society to in allowing media to
shape society.
You
may
consider whether media are unifying or divisive forces;
whether they foster diversity or stereotypes, engender class
envy…the choices are wide open.
Why to the media and consumers adopt their respective roles?
Requirements: 400-600 words and include research from two
sources other than the text or lecture. Submit as an attachment
in MLA format.
Supporting Materials
Weekly Topic Assignment Rubric.docx
(15 KB)
Submission
To submit your assignment, attach one or more files and then
click Submit.
Originality of attachments will be verified by Turnitin. Both
you and your instructor will receive the results.