Media key theories — Representation

Representation Theory — Stuart Hall

Media doesn’t reflect reality but constructs it through representation

— producers use stereotypes as shortcuts to communicate meaning.

— stereotypes often link to power w dominant and minor groups

Representation is about how meaning is created and understood not about showing truth

Identity Theory — David Gauntlett

Media provide audiences with tools to help build our identities.

— audiences use media to explore, negotiate and express their own identities

Identities are fluid and ongoing, shaped through media interaction.

Feminist theory — Liesbet Van Zoonen

Media helps construct gender through representation that are influenced by social and historical contexts

— women are often objectified/ seen as sexualised objects (male gaze — mulvey’s theory)

— men shown as providers/ leaders and women are linked to domesticity and beauty

— gender roles are cultural not natural (change overtime based on contexts)

Media often reinforces patriarchal values, but can challenge them with progressive texts

Postcolonial theory — Paul Gilroy

Focuses on how the lasting impacts of colonialism shape culture, race and identity representation in the media

— criticises Eurocentric narratives that often dominate media and history.

— introduces the idea of black atlantic and highlights hybrid identities 9challenging notion of fixed national or racial identities.

— media can reinforce racial stereotypes but also resist oppression and celebrate marginalised voices

Gender Performativity — Judith Butler

Gender is not innate but performed through repeated actions.

— challenges the idea of fixed male/ female roles and how identity is fluid and constructed through social interaction rather than biology

Feminist Theory — Bell Hooks

Intersectional approach → race, class and gender all matters (sexism is connected to racism, classism and other forms of oppression)

Feminism is about liberation from oppression for all not just women.

— Media often reinforces patriarchy, racism and class inequality as it often ignores experiences of women of colour and working class women.