Industry Theories Flashcards
What is Curran and Seaton’s theory of media industries?
Curran and Seaton argue that media industries are dominated by a small number of companies driven by profit and power. This concentration limits creativity and diversity. However, when media is more diverse or not profit-driven (e.g. public service media), there is potential for more varied and democratic content.
What is Livingstone and Lunt’s theory of regulation?
Livingstone and Lunt suggest there’s a tension in media regulation between the need to protect audiences (e.g. from harmful/offensive content) and the need to support free expression and consumer choice. The internet and globalised media make regulation more difficult and blur these boundaries.
What is David Hesmondhalgh’s Cultural Industries theory?
Hesmondhalgh argues that media companies try to minimise risk and maximise profit by using vertical and horizontal integration, relying on stars, franchises, and genre conventions. This can lead to homogenised content. However, digital tech allows for new, diverse voices to emerge despite corporate dominance.
