And On That Note

Analyzing media is an important and valuable aspect in our society. Media is all around us, therefore it is crucial that an audience understands what they are being told and informed about. If we don’t criticize the media then we are being controlled by a hegemonic group of people that make up that media. We continue to watch shows that portray wrong class identities or stereotyping then we are contributing to the continuation of these shows. Without us, the audience, the media has no one to target to and their shows will not succeed. Some shows are a misrepresentation of our culture and society while others try to connect to the “American” culture. From taking this class, I began to look at the shows I watch and critiquing them.  When I watch a show now I look at the varying aspects it has to offer. For instance, shows that I used to find funny sort of seem wrong to laugh at. Or for example the Real Housewives franchise is just plain wrong. They fixate on a life that the majority of the population in this country can only fantasize about. The reason many people want this life is because the media has persuaded the lower class in this country that material goods dignifies ones success and power. Therefore, one should acquire and attain these things in order to live a great life. I watch the show mainly because it is funny to see how most of these women lack common sense and don’t truly know things about our society. The things they argue over are not important compared to the obstacles others face. On that note, I believe that if we want to see a change in the way the media represents our culture, then the majority of the people living in this country have to be the changing agent and take the media back. Let them know that just like they are watching us, we are watching them.  I really enjoyed this class and the varying subjects we covered.