Review The Week 6 Readings And Videos

Review The Week 6 Readings And Videoswrite A 350 To 700 Word Paper I

Review the Week 6 readings and videos. Write a 350- to 700-word paper in which you investigate the interrelationship between culture and visual entertainment media, such as television, film, and digital gaming. Include answers to the following questions: In what ways have various forms of visual entertainment media shaped American culture and its values? Are the social influences of visual entertainment media mostly positive or negative? Explain. Illustrate your answers with specific examples. Conclude your paper by summarizing how visual media either reflect or influence social behavior and attitudes. Format your paper consistent with Associate-level writing style guidelines.

Paper For Above instruction

The interrelationship between culture and visual entertainment media is complex and deeply rooted in shaping American societal values, norms, and perceptions. Visual entertainment media—including television, film, and digital gaming—serve both as mirrors of cultural values and active agents in influencing social behavior. These forms of media have historically played significant roles in shaping the collective consciousness of American society, often reinforcing or challenging traditional values, and reflecting societal changes over time.

One of the primary ways in which visual entertainment media has influenced American culture is through the portrayal of social norms and ideals. Hollywood movies, for instance, have historically depicted idealized images of masculinity, femininity, and success. Classic films such as "Gone with the Wind" and more recent blockbusters like "The Avengers" portray specific ideals of heroism, individualism, and patriotism that resonate with American cultural values. These portrayals help reinforce notions of individual achievement and moral righteousness, which are central to American identity. Additionally, television shows like "Leave It to Beaver" and "The Cosby Show" have historically presented family ideals, shaping societal expectations of family roles, gender norms, and social behavior.

Digital gaming, a more recent form of visual entertainment, has also significantly impacted American youth and popular culture. Games like "Grand Theft Auto" or "Fortnite" influence perceptions of violence, competition, and strategy. While some critics argue that violent games promote aggressive behavior, researchers suggest that their influence is more nuanced, often reflecting existing social behaviors rather than directly causing them. For example, competitive gaming environments can foster cooperation and strategic thinking, but excessively violent or aggressive content may desensitize viewers to real-world violence, raising concerns about its social influence.

The social influence of visual entertainment media can be both positive and negative, depending on context, content, and viewer engagement. On the positive side, media serves as an educational tool that raises awareness about important social issues. Films and documentaries like "Schindler’s List" or "Blackfish" educate audiences about historical atrocities and animal rights, fostering empathy and social responsibility. Furthermore, media representation of marginalized groups—such as the character of Black Panther or the series "Pose" highlighting LGBTQ+ communities—promotes diversity and inclusion, encouraging societal acceptance and reducing prejudice.

However, the negative influences of visual media are also evident. Stereotyping, racial bias, and unrealistic beauty standards often proliferate through media content, impacting social attitudes adversely. For example, stereotypical portrayals of minority groups in some movies propagate prejudiced perceptions, while the glorification of thin, youthful bodies in fashion and entertainment media can contribute to body image issues and low self-esteem, especially among teenagers. Moreover, excessive exposure to violent or sensational media content can foster fear, alienation, or desensitization to violence, adversely affecting social cohesion.

In conclusion, visual media reflect and influence social behavior and attitudes in multifaceted ways. They serve as both mirrors of cultural norms and catalysts for societal change. While entertainment media can promote positive social values such as empathy, diversity, and civic responsibility, they can also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and behavioral norms. As consumers and producers of visual entertainment, society holds the power and responsibility to shape media content in ways that reflect progressive values and foster social well-being. Ultimately, understanding the dynamic interplay between media and society can help cultivate a more informed, empathetic, and culturally aware populace.

References

1. Bavik, S., & Stefanone, M. (2016). Media Representation and Cultural Values. Journal of Media Psychology, 28(2), 82-89.
2. Gauntlett, D. (2007). Creative Visual Practice. Routledge.
3. Hetsroni, A., & Tukachinsky, R. (2021). The Impact of Violent Video Games on Aggressive Behavior: A Meta-Analysis. Aggression and Violent Behavior, 58, 101580.
4. Johnson, K. M., & Young, C. (2019). Media and Diversity: The Role of Televisual Content in Shaping Perceptions of Minorities. Journal of Cultural Studies, 12(3), 45-61.
5. McIntosh, P. (2015). The Construction of Reality Through Media. Media, Culture & Society, 37(7), 1043-1058.
6. Nothdurft, A. (2017). The Social Effects of Media Violence. International Journal of Media & Cultural Politics, 13(1), 123-137.
7. Scharrer, E. (2018). Representation and Stereotyping in the Media. Journal of Communication Inquiry, 42(4), 379–392.
8. Teasley, M. L., & Bynum, M. (2020). Media Violence and Its Impact on Society. Journal of Media Ethics, 35(4), 259-272.
9. Valkenburg, P. M., & Peter, J. (2013). Persuasive Effects of Entertainment Media. Routledge.
10. Williams, R. (2020). The Cultural Impact of Film and Television. Routledge.