Critical Media Studies: An Introduction

by Brian L. Ott, Robert L. Mack

An engaging and accessible introduction to a broad range of critical approaches to contemporary mass media theory and research   A decade after its first publication , Critical Media Studies continues toshape and define the field of media studies, offering innovative approaches that enable readers to explore the modern media landscape from a wide variety of perspectives. Integrating foundational theory and contemporary research, this groundbreaking text offers the most comprehensive set of analytical approaches currently available. Twelve critical perspectives―pragmatic, rhetorical, sociological, erotic, ecological, and others―enable readers to assess and evaluate the social and cultural consequences of contemporary media in their daily lives. The new third edition includes up-to-date content that reflects the current developments and cutting-edge research in the field. New or expanded material includes changing perceptions of race and gender, the impact of fandom on the media, the legacy of the television age, the importance of media literacy in the face of “fake news”, and developments in industry regulations and U.S. copyright law. This Critical Media Studies, 3 rd Edition is the ideal resource for undergraduate students in media studies, cultural studies, popular culture, communication, rhetoric, and sociology, graduate students new to critical perspectives on the media, and scholars in the field.

Genres: School, Nonfiction

432 pages, Paperback

First published August 24, 2009

Reviews

[Pierre-Luc Landry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Third time reading for teaching purposes. I really like this textbook but I'll definitely need to update to the latest edition next time I use it in class, due to the fact that some topics have evolved quite a lot since publication. I'm thinking particularly of everything related to fan culture and fan studies, which is straight up outdated. Otherwise, the authors present theoretical concepts in a playful and accessible way with interesting suggestions for classroom activities, and I've found this resource quite useful for my media studies and critical theory courses.

[Rich · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would not have chosen to read this book if it had not been required for a class. I'm glad I read it. It is really well-done, easy to read (for the most part) and very insightful. It has helped me understand the landscape of media and helped me develop a critical eye to the message and presentation of content in our ever-changing media-soaked world. I would recommend this book.

[Graham Oliver · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well put together. Only downside is that a good bit of the content would be repetitive for anyone that would go through reading it. Examples used make this a step above most related academic texts.