New Media
Sociology: AQA A Level, topic 9.1.1
New Media: Neophiliacs
New media refers to the evolution of existing media delivery systems and the development of new digital communication technologies.
New media
- Three characteristics of the new media:
- Convergence- combining different technologies.
- Compression- signals are digital so can be sent down the same cable.
- Interactivity- where the audience can interact with the media.
Neophiliacs
- Neophiliacs support the growth of the new media.
- They believe it has had a positive impact on society.
- They outline three positive aspects of the new media.
E-commerce
- An e-commerce revolution:
- Shopping online is quick and easy.
- Retailers offer exclusive internet deals to consumers, making prices more competitive.
Democracy
- Revitalising democracy:
- People can seek alternative views than the ones presented in mainstream media.
Choice
- Increased consumer choice:
- More TV channels and an increase in media output systems.
New Media: Cultural Pessimists
New media refers to the evolution of existing media delivery systems and the development of new digital communication technologies.
New media
- Three characteristics of the new media:
- Convergence- combining different technologies.
- Compression- signals are digital so can be sent down the same cable.
- Interactivity- where the audience can interact with the media.
Cultural pessimists
- Cultural pessimists believe that the revolution of the new media has been exaggerated.
- They believe it has had a negative impact on society.
- They outline three negative aspects of the new media.
Monopolies
- Domination by media conglomerates:
- The internet is dominated by a small amount of companies and they can direct audiences to certain products that benefit the elite.
Quality
- Decline in quality:
- There isn’t more choice.
- Instead media companies fill TV channels with repeated programming and reality TV to dumb down audiences.
Elite power
- Reinforcing elite power:
- Major corporations dominate the internet with websites that ensure their view is most prominent.