Author Description

This book is a thorough and lively introduction to the role, importance, and power of the mass media in contemporary British spciety. What is the mass media, and how does it help shape life in modern Britain?: After introducing the student to discussions around these questions, the authors examine the historical development of the mass media, issues of ownership, and the roots of its power in the public and political sphere.Contemporary issues surrounding today's media are also addressed. What is the role of the audience? How do people take pleasure from media culture? What are the issues surrounding the news, advertising, public services broadcasting, the shaping of public understanding, censorship, violence, and `moral panics'? the authors also finally look towards the future, considering prospects for a global media and the possible effects of the information superhighway.This book will be an invaluable introduction and point of reference for students of sociology, media studies, politics and human geography, and for anyone interested in our mass media.