In the current digital age, the interaction between media and culture has become more complex and important. In addition to reflecting the values, perceptions and behaviors of society, this dynamic relationship actively changes them. The impact of the media on our lives is evident, from its portrayal of social groups that influence public attitudes and opinions, to its dissemination of cultural items through the presentation and promotion of various cultural expressions such as film, music, art and literature (Workheimer&Adorno,2006). This influence also affects how audiences consume and understand media material and integrate it into their own cultural identities and experiences.
It is impossible to exaggerate how important media portrayal is in shaping public opinion and in challenging preconceptions. However, the procedure is not one-way. Cultural practices and identities have an equal impact on media, which is impacted by varied customs and norms, appeals to various cultural groups, and resonates with their interests.
The power of media representation
The media plays a critical role in shaping perceptions and identities by fabricating tales that affect how we see ourselves and other people. A sense of community or alienation may be established, prejudices may be challenged or reinforced, and self-esteem may be affected. This dynamic relationship has a significant effect on both personal and society identities and perspectives.
Current media representations influence public opinion
“Parasite” (2019): The South Korean film “Parasite” depicted issues of class and inequality, offering a unique perspective on the struggles faced by marginalized groups in society, particularly the working class.
The way the media handled its coverage of the movie “Parasite” was crucial in forming public opinion and ensuring the film’s success. There are a number of important ways to highlight this influence. First, the movie received a lot of media attention, including at film festivals and award shows, which fueled critical acclaim and influenced the general public’s opinion. Additionally, “Parasite” created history by taking home multiple Oscars, including the coveted Best Picture prize. This feat attracted a lot of media attention and helped the movie become a worldwide sensation.
The media also highlighted the movie’s investigation of current social and economic concerns, particularly class inequality, to emphasize its cultural significance. The importance of the movie and its influence on public opinion expanded as these subjects were discussed more frequently in society.
Additionally, the media portrayed “Parasite” as a piece with universal appeal, highlighting its themes, which made it approachable and relatable to a variety of audiences around the world. The public’s response to the movie was widened and diversified by this strategy.
The film’s reputation as a must-see movie was further cemented by the substantial media coverage of its box office success, with high box office receipts and robust audience interaction significantly influencing favorable public opinion. In conclusion, the media’s contribution to promoting “Parasite” as a ground-breaking and socially relevant movie cannot be overstated, as it was instrumental in making the picture a cinematic masterpiece and a topic of worldwide discourse.
Cultural production and its impact on society
How media platforms influence cultural production
By giving creators open and extensive channels to share their work, media platforms act as powerful catalysts for cultural production. These platforms enable artists to reach a wide range of audiences, create cultural narratives, and influence society values and trends, whether they are creating music, art, literature, or digital material.
The Impact of Social Media on Music
Music Collaboration and Promotion:Social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter have made it possible for musicians to work with other producers and artists from all over the world, eradicating geographical boundaries and resulting in the creation of diverse and avant-garde music.
Social networking platforms have revolutionized the music business by enabling musicians to work together and market their work in previously unimaginable ways. Beyond national borders, musicians, producers, and songwriters can connect with one another online. Sites like SoundCloud, YouTube, and even TikTok have become hotbeds for new talent, giving musicians a platform to share their music with the world. By sharing their work with their followers on social media, musicians have been able to develop a devoted following. They have incorporated fan culture into the core of the Internet, influencing modern media and altering the power dynamics between fans and experts(Baym,2018). Social media’s viral nature has upended conventional music promotion strategies, allowing songs to gain popularity very quickly. Independent musicians now have more autonomy over their careers and are less reliant on record labels as a result. As a result, there are now more equal chances in the music industry, which has led to a more lively and diverse music scene.ibrant music environment.
Cultural Imperialism in the Digital Age
World culture has been permanently influenced by Western media. Globally acclaimed Hollywood productions, like the superhero franchise, have influenced local films’ substance and style while also promoting American cultural values.
English has become a universal language thanks to its predominance in international media, influencing linguistics and cross-cultural communication. The way Western lives are portrayed, particularly in television programs, has an impact on consumer decisions, fashion trends, and even how different nations perceive social norms. The narrative surrounding international events and concerns is frequently formed by Western news media, affecting public opinion and governmental policies in several countries.
Similarly, Western pop music, from rock and hip-hop to pop stars like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift, has become an international soundtrack, impacting musical tastes and local music industries.
Additionally, the emergence of international social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter has fundamentally altered global politics, action, and communication. While this impact has encouraged creativity and cross-cultural exchange, it has also sparked discussions about cultural imperialism and the protection of regional customs and values.
Conclusion
As a result of our investigation into the complex interaction between media and culture, it is clear that the media has a significant impact on cultural practices, identities, and societal attitudes. It is clear that the society we live in is both reflected in and shaped by the media, from how we perceive different social groups and events to how our personal identities are developed. Critical thinking and awareness are essential for navigating this constantly changing environment. Understanding the intricate relationships between media and culture, whether we are media producers or consumers, enables us to make wise decisions, support diversity, and confront prejudices, resulting in a more inclusive and equitable future.
References：
Adorno, T.W. and Horkheimer, M., 2019. The culture industry: Enlightenment as mass deception. In Philosophers on Film from Bergson to Badiou: A Critical Reader (pp. 80-96). Columbia University Press.
Baym, N. 2018. Playing to the Crowd: Musicians, Audiences, and the Intimate Work of Connection. New York, USA: New York University Press. https://doi.org/10.18574/nyu/9781479896165.001.0001
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Face the Music: Social media is humming with local music (2020) Available at: https://www.pressherald.com/2020/03/23/face-the-music-social-media-is-humming-with-local-music/ (Accessed: 23 October 2023).
New College Course To Focus On Marvel Cinematic Universe (2014) Available at: https://comicbook.com/marvel/news/new-college-course-to-focus-on-marvel-cinematic-universe/ (Accessed: 23 October 2023).
Parasite (2019) is still making me think (2020) Available at: https://www.bannedlibrary.com/blog/2020/2/12/parasite-2019-is-still-making-me-think (Accessed: 23 October 2023).
The Haunted Homes of Parasite (2020) Available at: https://www.vogue.com/article/the-haunted-homes-of-parasite (Accessed: 23 October 2023).
OHH! I’ve seen the film Parasite and it is indeed a very good film! In your article I can clearly see the role of social media in promoting the development of the cultural industry, in fact, social media has expanded people’s information circle to a certain extent, allowing information to circulate faster and more efficiently, and I think a lot of new industries will definitely collide under this rapid exchange of information. But as you said, we need to be more tolerant to the emerging things.