Ideology

 Part 1: Media Magazine reading

Media Magazine issue 52 has two good articles on Ideology. You need to read those articles (our Media Magazine archive is here) and complete a few short tasks linked to them. 

Page 34: The World Of Mockingjay: Ideology, Dystopia And Propaganda

1) Read the article and summarise it in one sentence.

analysis of the dystopian representation of capitalist society in the latest Hunger Games film and the series as whole

2) What view of capitalist ideology is presented in the Hunger Games films?

those in power control ideas, as well as resources.

3) What do the Hunger Games films suggest about the power of the media to shape and influence ideological beliefs?

those in power control ideas, as well as resources.

4) What is YOUR opinion on this topic? Do you think the media shapes our values and beliefs?
I think it does however our upbringing also has a part in it

Page 48: They Live - Understanding Ideology

1) What are the four accepted ideological beliefs in western societies highlighted by the article?

• Money = Happiness
• Consumer goods = Fulfilment
• Marriage/Family/Children = Happiness
• Obedience/Work= Fulfilment

2) What does Gramsci's theory of hegemony suggest about power and ideology in society?

Gramsci defined hegemony as an important way in which those in power maintain their control through consent,

rather than the use of force.

3) What does French theorist Louis Althusser suggest about ideology and consumerism?

• 'Repressive State Control'
• ‘Ideological State Apparatuses’

4) Do YOU agree with the idea behind They Live - that we are unthinkingly controlled by the media which is run in the interests of the economic elite? These are the big questions of A Level Media!

Somewhat yes

Part 2: The role of the media in democracy

Read this Constitution Unit blog on the importance of media in democracy. This brings together our work on ownership, public service broadcasting, regulation and ideology. Answer the following questions:

1) Why is the media important in a democracy? 

It creates an arena for the exchange of opinion, discussion and deliberation

2) What are the hallmarks of a free and healthy media landscape?

media independence, pluralism, the existence of impartial outlets, and high journalistic standards.

3) What risks are identified that threaten a healthy media environment? 

• Threats to broadcaster impartiality
• Threats to media independence
• Polarising content
• Weakened local and investigatory reporting
• Disinformation and misinformation
• Monopolies

4) What is YOUR opinion on how the media can be safeguarded to protect democracy? You may want to think about ownership, regulation, technology or public service broadcasting here.

The media should have workers and AI who regulate the media being posted so that it is all safe