Looking at the Media

What role does the media play in the development, perpetuation or establishment of our beliefs?

Look at these pictures.  What messages are they giving us?

Ads, news reports and television shows that bombard us with their messages can change the way we think.

In groups, discuss ads, news reports or television shows that have really "stuck" for you.  How have they affected how you feel or what you think?  Do you think they change the way you or others behave?

Watch the following news clip.

Having watched the video, what responsibility does the media have towards social justice?

The following three clips are from TV shows focusing on African American families.  What messages are they giving?

Good Times (1974-1979)

The Cosby Show (1984-1992)

Tyler Perry's House of Payne (2006-2011)

  

These are three shows spread over close to 40 years depicting African American families.  What are they telling us?  Two of these shows were considered groundbreaking at the time.  Can you guess which ones they were?  What would have made them groundbreaking?

Look at this clip.  How much has changed since then?



Homework:

Read this article

CBC News - Music - Censor Dire Straits song: broadcast panel

Write on your blog what you think the media's responsibility is in terms of social justice.  What can you do to help the media make the best choices?