Chapter 2: Communication, Society, and Culture

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from Chapter 2 of Communication Studies, focusing on societal and cultural influences in communication.

Society

The body of institutions and relationships where a relatively large group of people live.

Culture

A particular way of life, including knowledge, belief, art, morals, law, custom, and capabilities acquired by members of society.

Libertarian Theory

Focuses on the freedoms of the individual as a fundamental tenet of media.

Social Responsibility Theory

Argues that modern media should prioritize societal needs over corporate and economic interests.

Mass Society Theory

Suggests that technological changes lead to individuals becoming a homogeneous collective, losing personal ties.

Political Economic Theory

Based on the writings of Karl Marx, argues that Industrial Capitalism impacts societal organization and promotes social inequalities.

Public Sphere

An abstract space for discussing matters of common concern and interest.

Fake News

Fabricated news items aimed at undermining a political rival or de-legitimizing an idea.

Economies of Scale

Concept where the cost per unit of production decreases as the volume increases.

Canadian Communication Policy

Government strategies aimed at nation-building through media investment and support for Canadian content.