Media Communication: An Introduction to Theory and Process

This lively and supportive textbook introduces students to the role, practice, and influence of the mass media in contemporary society. Emphasizing the social, cultural, political, and economic contexts in which the media operates, it provides a clear conceptual framework for understanding the process of media communication and looks at a range of key issues, from news production to media control and audience reception. This welcome new edition has been thoroughly updated to includes substantial new material on the Internet and a more sustained engagement with debates about globalization.

This book offers a much-needed introduction to studying the media that is both accessible to the beginning undergraduate and challenging to the more able school leaver.

Booknews

An introduction to the role, practice, and influence of mass media in contemporary society. Emphasizes the social, cultural, political, and economic contexts in which media operates; discusses the influences and constraints on the construction of media messages; and addresses questions such as the values of the media, the effect of ownership, and the processes of making the news. Also explores a range of debates and research findings on audiences and reception. Paper edition (unseen), $21.95. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

James Watson is Director of the BA Honours degree in Media and Communication, West Kent College.