The Diversity In Society There Is Diversity Essay Example
The Diversity In Society There Is Diversity Essay Example

The Diversity In Society There Is Diversity Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (903 words)
  • Published: September 2, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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The transmission of news, opinions, and views has been debated throughout human history, forming the foundation of mass media sociology. This field explores the reasons behind this phenomenon and has resulted in globally studied theories. The most commonly used theories are Pluralism and Marxism, despite being conflicting. This essay examines these theories starting with Pluralism, which sees the media as an institution providing diverse perspectives for various societal groups.

In a diverse British society with multiple races, religions, and social classes, the media offers information that meets individuals' interests. Pluralists maintain that the media's role in society is to provide a range of perspectives and information to fulfill people's needs. This principle is crucial to pluralism.

Pluralism acknowledges the diversity of society and, hence, media should reflect such diversity. Pluralists argue that people

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willingly pay for different perspectives in media, which is why it continues to exist. If media showed unwanted views or ideas, businesses would not survive. The fact that many countries prohibit cross-ownership in media supports the pluralist theory as it prevents a single perspective from dominating the masses. Pluralism recognizes that individuals are a product of society and media exposure is only one factor contributing to our identities.

According to pluralism, media owners do not have direct control over the content transmitted by their media, as this is up to the journalists and editors. The opinions of these individuals may differ greatly from those of the owner. Katz and Lazarsfeld are notable supporters of pluralism, and their book "Personal Influence," which was based on data from 1945 and published in 1955, argues against alternative theories by highlighting the unpredictable effects of media.

Various factor

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contribute to the way individuals or groups are impacted, including personal, political, practical, and technological variables. The means by which messages are conveyed has a significant influence, as images can often convey more persuasive messages than simply words alone, as seen in charity advertisements such as those for the NSPCC. The language and format used to present information also play a role in shaping how audiences understand it. Supporters of Marxism frequently critique Pluralism by highlighting that media corporations themselves fund much of the research done to evaluate media content and messaging, leading to biases and distorted results designed to minimize concerns about particular issues. Another criticism relates to the relationship between journalists and politicians.

Blumer and Gurevitch heavily support the idea that journalists require the acceptance of many politicians in order to conduct interviews and news coverage. Conversely, politicians also need journalists to share their perspectives as without them, their political party and its actions would receive limited positive publicity to support their campaign. The primary distinguishing factor between Pluralism and Marxism is that the Pluralist model presumes, rather than demonstrates, that media content is diverse. Marxist theories have very little resemblance to Pluralist ideologies, as they are in conflict on almost every viewpoint. Marxists believe that the media is inherently beneficial only to those who control it.

The Marxist ideology is divided into two factions: Traditional and Hegemonic Marxism. The followers of Traditional Marxism firmly believe that the media plays a pivotal role in propagating and endorsing the opinions of the 'privileged class'. They contend that this is particularly evident in advertising, as products are showcased to evoke sentiments such as joy, affection, and

even personal growth. Additionally, they also observe a phenomenon called 'agenda setting' in society through the media.

Hegemonic Marxists claim that the 'ruling class' controls the discourse of certain ideas and perspectives in society. This is exemplified by the prevalence of daily soap operas like Albert Square, which overshadow discussions about poverty and famine in Africa. These Marxists contend that the views held by the 'ruling class' have become accepted as 'common sense' and are not challenged. Moreover, journalists driven by profit often promote capitalist ideals even if they do not believe them. Opponents to these dominant views or to capitalism itself are often regarded as extremists and their ideas may be presented but ultimately disregarded. Notable Marxist sociologists include Glasgow University Media Group (GUMG) and Stuart Hall.

The GUMG's objective is to analyze media content in order to demonstrate the prevalence of capitalist perspectives. They typically charge a substantial fee for their findings and do not readily provide them for free. Despite having significant support, Marxist theories are frequently criticized for not taking into account the regulations and legal constraints imposed on media proprietors.

Media ownership and content are limited by regulation. If demand for information is lacking, there is a higher risk of the company's failure. "The media mirrors society; diversity in society equals diversity in media." My perspective on this statement is complex. While I agree with the emphasis on pluralism, various factors must be considered, starting with my own viewpoint.

If I am completely in agreement with this perspective, then the ideology has been effective. It means the 'ruling class' has accomplished the creation of hegemony in both my thinking and behavior. Thus,

I seem content with the supposed exploitation of the masses. I prefer discussing with my friends about Alan Partridge's slipper purchase or the events of Homer Simpson's family life. I could enjoy it, or I might just mistakenly believe that I do.

While I partially agree with the statement, my perspective might shift as I acquire more understanding of sociology and can back up my viewpoint with additional evidence.

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