Media Theories

Question 1

David Gauntlett’s Theory of Identity (Representation)

Answer 1

Media provides us with tools and resources to construct our identities. We can ‘Pick and Mix’ different ideas from a diverse range of stars and icons.

Question 2

Liesbit Van Zoonen’s Feminist Theory (Representation)

Answer 2

Gender is constructed through discourse and it varies according to cultural and historical context.

Question 3

Stuart Hall Reception Theory (Audiences)

Answer 3

Media products are encoded by the producer with underlying meanings with the hope the audience will decode them and understand them.

Question 4

Reception Theory (Audiences): 3 Stages

Answer 4

Preferred, Negotiated and Oppositional.

Question 5

bell hook Feminist Theory (Representation)

Answer 5

Feminism is the struggle to end patriarchal oppression. Feminism is a political commitment and u need to be active to be a true feminist. Discrimination and oppression are also dependent on ethnicity and class.

Question 6

Livingstone & Lunt’s Regulation Theory (Industry)

Answer 6

Underlying struggle in recent times to further the interests of citizens or the consumers

Question 7

Curren & Seaton’s Power & Media Industries Theory (Industry)

Answer 7

Media is controlled by a small number of large organisations driven by power and profit thus inhibiting creativity, variety and quality.

Question 8

David Hesmondhalgh’s Cultural Industries Theory (Industry)

Answer 8

Media organisations will attempt to minimise risk and maximise audiences in order to maximise profits.