Consider the Source of Media Messages

Consider the Source of Media Messages

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Remember that every message you receive has a source, and it’s your job to question its credibility. If you understand the biases and goals of media sources—from advertisers and journalists to filmmakers and bloggers—you will be in a better position to know whether to resist or accept their messages. Bear in mind the economics of media, and think about how the business of mass communication might affect the messages you receive. And remember to be just as critical with material that supports your views as you are with material that does not.

THINGS TO TRY

List your five favorite TV shows. What do they have in common? Are these the same top five that your friends would list? Why or why not? What specifically do you like about these shows? What needs are being met by your watching them? How do you think they affect you?