Community media is such an interesting topic. The chapter we read was interesting, insightful and engaging. I didn't think of describing media that was created to empower members of the community actually had its own name and category.
One of the main ideas discussed within the chapter was the general apathy of western nations regarding politics. The author explains that media is seen as both an advocate for democratic values in society and an undemocratic entity controlled by the elite. Supposedly, the media’s negative coverage of political representatives and politics causes decreased voter turn out and political action by society. I’ve definitely noticed this apathetic plague spreading amongst my American peers and believe the media does have an effect; Americans are more interested in consumption, sports, American Idol, and their physical appearance far more than they care about morality, social justice, or environmental justice.
Another main point from the reading explains that community media can/has become the means for many voiceless members within the community to express themselves. Community media works to combat against the historical methods mass media uses to obtain and retain power. I’m not personally affiliated with any aspects of community media, but this is also a new concept to me. I not only find it to be interesting, but I feel that it could be a direction I should look into after I graduate.
~T
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