CTCS 150 Midterm Flashcards on Media Concepts

Semiotics

The study of signs and symbols in media, including denotation (literal meaning) and connotation (cultural meaning).

Interpellation

The process by which individuals recognize themselves within societal ideologies.

Intersectionality

The overlapping and interconnected social categorizations such as race, gender, and class, leading to multiple levels of discrimination.

Centering

Prioritizing certain identities or perspectives in media representation.

Symbolic Annihilation

The absence or misrepresentation of marginalized groups in media.

Dominant Narrative/Culture

The mainstream societal storyline that influences public perception.

Representation

The way media portrays people, cultures, and identities.

Socially Conscious Analysis

Examining media through the lens of social justice and inclusivity.

Critical Consciousness

Awareness of oppression and media's role in shaping it.

Denotative Meaning

The literal, dictionary definition of a word or image.

Connotative Meaning

The deeper, cultural, or ideological meaning behind a word or image.

Myth/Ideologies

The societal beliefs reinforced through media narratives.

Image Icons

Powerful, widely recognized symbols in media.

Media Convergence

The blending of different media forms and platforms.

Public Sphere

A space where individuals discuss and engage in societal issues.

Media Ecology

The study of how media environments shape human behavior and culture.

Medium is the Message

The idea that the way a message is delivered is just as important as the message itself (McLuhan).

Male Gaze

The way women are depicted in media through a heterosexual male perspective.

Discourses of Power

How media reinforces or challenges societal power structures.

Media Practice Model

The study of media production, consumption, and cultural impact.

Filter Bubble

Personalized algorithms that reinforce pre-existing beliefs by limiting exposure to diverse perspectives.

Polysemy

The idea that media texts can be interpreted in multiple ways.

Ideology

A system of ideas and ideals, especially one that forms the basis of economic or political theory and policy.

Hegemony

The dominance of one social group over others, often reinforced through media and culture.