MASS Mass Communication Theory

Author: Stanley J. Baran
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-11-01
Features: This is the newest textbook in mass communication, incorporating the latest theories and research findings from the international communication field. Compared to previous editions, it places greater emphasis on cutting-edge issues such as media role studies, globalization of communication, audience reception, and the evaluation of media behavior. The most distinctive feature of this book is its central positioning of media theory within mass communication theory. It provides an authoritative introduction to mass communication theory in a historical context, describing the emergence and development of the two major schools of thought in mass communication—the empirical school and the cultural critique school. It summarizes how these two academic traditions have supported the development of media culture movements and proposes a new media communication theory that integrates the two. The authors of this book are two outstanding American communication scholars. Baran (Stanley J. Baran) has received numerous awards in broadcast and film studies. Dr. Davis (Dennis K. Davis) is a professor of media studies and has been awarded multiple teaching awards in American communication. The book features a unique narrative style, logical reasoning, clear and concise content, and an innovative format, with each chapter providing an introduction to "Key Figures and Their Works." This book is suitable as a core textbook or reference for mass communication courses in journalism and communication programs, as well as a valuable desk reference for media professionals. We introduce this original textbook with the hope that learners can authentically understand and grasp the essence and nuances of Western communication studies. This is the newest textbook in mass communication, incorporating the latest theories and research findings from the international communication field. Compared to previous editions, it places greater emphasis on cutting-edge issues such as media role studies, globalization of communication, audience reception, and the evaluation of media behavior. The most distinctive feature of this book is its central positioning of media theory within mass communication theory. It provides an authoritative introduction to mass communication theory in a historical context, describing the emergence and development of the two major schools of thought in mass communication—the empirical school and the cultural critique school. It summarizes how these two academic traditions have supported the development of media culture movements and proposes a new media communication theory that integrates the two. The authors of this book are two outstanding American communication scholars. Baran (Stanley J. Baran) has received numerous awards in broadcast and film studies. Dr. Davis (Dennis K. Davis) is a professor of media studies and has been awarded multiple teaching awards in American communication. The book features a unique narrative style, logical reasoning, clear and concise content, and an innovative format, with each chapter providing an introduction to "Key Figures and Their Works." This book is suitable as a core textbook or reference for mass communication courses in journalism and communication programs, as well as a valuable desk reference for media professionals. We introduce this original textbook with the hope that learners can authentically understand and grasp the essence and nuances of Western communication studies.