Croteau/Hoynes: Media/Society, 5th Edition
Chapter 7: Media Influence and the Political World
Discussion Questions
1. What are the key tenets of each of the following theoretical models?
a. hypodermic model
b. minimal effects model
c. agenda setting
d. cultivation theory
2. Which of the theoretical models examined in this chapter do you think best explains the
impact of media?
a. Which theoretical models in this chapter resonate most with you? Do elements of
various theories resonate? If so, why?
3. What are the strengths and weaknesses of our current system of electoral media
coverage?
4. How does media coverage affect the success of a social movement effort?
a. How can social movements work with mainstream journalists without risking
erasing their message and aims?
5. Where does the hypodermic model come from? Why does the hypodermic or bullet
model persist in contemporary discourse, even though it has been widely discredited in
the academic literature on media effects and active audiences? Explain.
6. What concerns or contexts motivated mass society theorists? Do you agree or disagree
with their contentions? Why/why not?
7. What are some of the challenges of conducting research on media effects? What three
elements or effects do the authors point to? Can you think of any other challenges?
8. How will the Internet continue to change how Americans get their news? Will it
drastically change American political culture?
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