Chapter 1: Media/Society – Sociological Perspective Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the notes on media/society, the sociological perspective, and the contemporary media model.

Interpersonal Communication

Communication between individuals; the internet enables one-to-one exchanges as well as public broadcasting.

Mass Media

Media channels designed to reach large audiences; the internet can function as mass media in addition to personal communication.

Ritual model of communication

frames communication as a process for maintaining society and shared beliefs, rather than just transmitting information.

Transmission model of communication

views communication as a linear, one-way process where a sender transmits a message to a receiver

Public–Private Boundary Blurring

The fusion of private, everyday communication with public, mass-media channels due to online platforms.

Media User

An active participant who both consumes and produces media content, not just a passive audience member.

Viral Content

Content that spreads rapidly and broadly through sharing across networks.

Social Media Actions

Activities like liking, reposting, commenting, and tagging that help distribute and respond to content.

Figure 1.5A Model of Media and the Social World

A simplified, circular model showing Industry, Content, Technology, and Users embedded in the Social World with double-headed arrows indicating interchange.

Industry

Media organizations responsible for producing and distributing content; the professional/commercial side of media.

Content

The material subject of media, including topics, programs, posts, and user-generated material.

Technology

The tools and platforms (the medium’s material elements) through which content is delivered.

Users

Active participants who both consume and create media content; replace passive receivers.

Social World

The broader social context—norms, government regulation, institutions—that shapes and is shaped by media.

Old vs New Media

Traditionally, 'old' (mass media) versus internet-based media; these have blurred and converged over time.

Interactivity

Two-way communication and feedback between elements in the media model, reflected by double-headed arrows.

Sociological Perspective

A lens that emphasizes relationships between individuals and the larger social context and forces.

Structure

Recurring patterns of social behavior that constrain or enable action within society.

Agency

The capacity for intentional, purposive action that can sustain or change social structures.

Socialization

The process by which individuals learn norms, values, and roles, shaping their sense of self.

Traditional Family

Post–World War II pattern typically involving two married heterosexual parents and children, with defined gender roles.

Education System

Institutional network of schools and related structures; can enable success or constrain achievement.

Social Institutions

Formal and informal structures (family, government, schools, media, etc.) that organize social life.

Second Screen

Using a secondary device (e.g., smartphone) while watching TV to engage with content and participate in discourse.

Hashtags

Tags used on social platforms to categorize content and join conversations.

Media as a Social Institution

Viewing media as embedded in and influencing the broader social world and institutions.