Global Media : The New Missionaries...

Global Media : The New Missionaries...

Publisher
Madhyam Books
Published
1998
Pages
—
ISBN-13
9788186816073
Format
print
Language
English
Book Summary
Global Media: The New Missionaries is a critical analysis of how corporate-owned media shapes public opinion and serves elite interests. Herman and McChesney argue that global media giants function like missionaries, spreading market ideology and undermining democracy. This book is essential for understanding media consolidation, propaganda, and the political economy of communication.
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About Global Media : The New Missionaries...

In Global Media: The New Missionaries, Edward S. Herman and Robert W. McChesney examine the rise of transnational media corporations and their impact on global communication. They argue that these media giants, driven by advertising and profit, act as new missionaries spreading neoliberal ideology and consumerism. The book traces the concentration of media ownership, the role of public relations, and the erosion of public service broadcasting. Through case studies and policy analysis, the authors show how media systems worldwide are becoming more commercialized and less diverse, threatening democratic discourse. They also discuss resistance movements and propose media reform. This work is a foundational text in media studies, offering a rigorous critique of the global media landscape and its implications for democracy and culture.

Who should read Global Media : The New Missionaries...?

This book is essential for students and scholars of media studies, communication, journalism, and political economy. It is also valuable for activists, policymakers, and anyone concerned about media consolidation, propaganda, and the health of democracy. Readers interested in understanding how corporate power shapes public opinion and cultural globalization will find it insightful. It suits those seeking a critical perspective on global media systems and practical ideas for media reform.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Provides a rigorous political economy framework for analyzing global media.
  • ✓ Offers detailed case studies and empirical evidence on media consolidation.
  • ✓ Written by leading scholars in the field, ensuring authoritative analysis.
  • ✓ Highlights the threat of commercial media to democratic discourse.
  • ✓ Includes discussion of resistance and reform strategies, offering hope.
Cons
  • ✗ Some readers may find the dense academic prose challenging.
  • ✗ The focus on political economy may underplay cultural and audience agency.
  • ✗ Examples and data are somewhat dated, as the book was published in 2001.
  • ✗ The critique can feel overly deterministic for some tastes.
  • ✗ Limited discussion of digital and social media, which emerged later.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main argument of Global Media: The New Missionaries?
The book argues that global media corporations act as new missionaries, spreading market ideology and undermining democracy by prioritizing profit over public interest.
Who are the authors?
Edward S. Herman and Robert W. McChesney are prominent media scholars known for their critical work on the political economy of communication.
Is this book still relevant today?
Yes, while some data is dated, the core analysis of media consolidation and commercialism remains highly relevant to contemporary debates on media power.
What topics does the book cover?
It covers media ownership concentration, advertising, public relations, global media policy, and the impact on democracy and culture.
Does the book offer solutions?
Yes, the authors discuss media reform movements and propose policies to create more democratic and diverse media systems.

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