Reading Media Theory

A well organised reader which covers the key theories and theorists ... a required text for any student of the media and mass communication.  It is a comprehensive overview of media theory, drawing together readings which represent milestones in the field with lucid explanation of their relevance and critical assessment of their impact.

Kevin Williams, Professor of Media and Communication Studies, Swansea University

"Clearly organised around key thinkers in the field, Reading Media Theory offers students an ideal combination of landmark original writings, clear and concise explanations and thoughtful reflection.

Andy Willis, Reader, School of Media, Music and Performance, University of Salford

What does the Frankfurt School have to say about the creative industries? Does the spread of Google prove we now live in an information society? How is Madonna an example of postmodernism? How new is new media? Does the power of Facebook mean we're all media makers now?

This groundbreaking volume part reader, part textbook - helps you to engage thoroughly with some of the major voices that have come to define the landscape of theory in media studies, from the public sphere to postmodernism, from mass communication theory to media effects, from production to reception and beyond. But much more than this, by providing assistance and questions directly alongside the readings, it crucially helps you develop the skills necessary to become a critical, informed and analytical reader.

Each reading is supported on the facing page by author annotations which provide comments, dissect the arguments, explain key ideas and terminology, make references to other relevant material, and pose questions that emerge from the text.

Key features

• Opening chapters: What is theory? and What is reading? bring alive the importance of both as key parts of media scholarship
• Pre-reading: substantial Introductory sections set each text and its author in context and show the relevance of the reading to contemporary culture
• Post-reading: Reflection sections summarise each readings key points and suggests further areas to explore and think about
• 4 types of annotations help you engage with the reading context, content, structure, and writing style . as well as questions to provoke further thought
• Split into 4 sections Reading theory, Key thinkers and schools, Approaches and Media Theory in context

New to the second edition

• New chapters on New Media, and Audiences as Producers
• Chapters removed from the 1st edition on The Chicago School, Walter Lippmann and Marxism now available for download at www.pearsoned.co.uk/mills

Reading Media Theory will assist yo...