Mass media enjoys a very prominent role in our lives. There are various effects of mass media on the society at large and it tends to influence society. There are positive as well as negative influences of mass media. However, it also depends upon the way audiences perceive things. The power of the mass media is by far recognized by everybody in terms of advertising, marketing and as a medium to broadcast information to people at large. Since mass media is used to communicate and interact with people from various walks of life, it can often result in a conflict of options. Print media (magazines, newspapers, brochures, press releases, newsletters etc.), electronic media (television, radio etc.) and the Internet are all part of mass media. Today, mass media can give a person phenomenal exposure and this can result in various effects of the mass media on society.
In this unit, learn about the facts behind various mass media platforms, the known issues surrounding mass media and why is it such a powerful medium today. It is not an exaggeration to say that the media plays an integral part in shaping and influencing the ideas and opinions of people.
Mass media helps people to communicate and connect with friends and family on various levels. With advancements in technology, platforms like television and social media have made people more aware about the current events. Many studies have found that individuals adapt their use of mass media to their own particular needs
The mass media influences the mindsets of the young and impressionable; leading to a blurring of the distinction between right and wrong. One has to be discerning in what they believe, which is presented to them by the mass media.
While Mass Media has made the truth subjective. There are media outlets which do present an unbiased view. For example, fact-checking websites like Snopes and PolitiFact do present facts to the audiences.
In many parts of the world, media voices are being crushed by verbal attacks, arbitrary detentions and even execution of journalists. In some of the most influential democracies in the world, populist leaders have attempted to throttle the independence of the media sector.
