First Thoughts

As discussed in class, the term “media” is commonly identified as a single term. We often forget that it is the plural of the word “medium” because when used contextually, people often say, “the media.” Using this catchphrase, the different mediums such as television, radio, literature, etc. conglomerate into one unit. Thus, associating all these mediums as a single identity allows society to take media for granted. For instance, media convergence has blended the mode of media delivery so that one is now able to watch a television program on his iPod. Or, receive caller i.d. on their television. This combinational approach gives less distinction and uniqueness to each type of medium. While a lot of this has to do with advancements in technology, I often wonder if it is really necessary. Many of the additional features of technological advancements appear to support the laziness of our society. Either that, or demonstrate how easily media can pull one away from social interactions.

The idea that media create para-social relationships is an interesting proposition. Gitlin writes, “But child or adult, we do demand something from our images, even if they are only ‘almost real.’ We expect them to heighten life, to intensify and focus it by being better than real, more vivid, more stark, more something” (23). These para-social relationships are perhaps relationships that we want because they are “better than real” relationships. They are “better than real” because the people that we listen to on the radio or see on the television are not people whom we socially interact with. They are people with whom we react to. But what is the purpose of these evoked emotions? Why do we constantly seek the stimulation of a quick sensational feeling? To be perfectly honest, I don’t even really know how to answer this question. It is almost scary to think about because when I ask myself why I continually watch reality television shows or yell angrily at Tyra Banks when she name-drops her own name, I don’t know. But then again, I can’t forget that television is the only form of media that stirs these types of feelings. The last Harry Potter book roused an argument between me and my friend where we were practically shouting at the top of our lungs at each other. Tell me, what is the point of arguing over one word a character says in 800 pages? Probably nothing. But, perhaps something. Who knows? I guess I have somewhat diverged from the origin of this blog. But that is probably the most fascinating thing about media: it allows for a boundless amount of topic conversation.

In case you were wondering, the word was “bitch.”