In What Ways Can The Mass Media Be Beneficial?

Essay by zmang86 June 2004

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An increasing emphasis on the mass media has been especially reflected in the wake of events with far-reaching impact such as the September 11 terrorist attacks and the Iraq war. This emphasis is hardly misplaced with the increasing benefits of the mass media becoming clearer day by day. Generally, most people assume that the mass media, which in today's context can be defined as a means of communication that reaches large numbers of people via mediums such as the television, radio, newspapers and internet, is confined within its role to disseminate information. However, the mass media is now well regarded as an instrument for behavior change communication. Furthermore, the mass media acts as a supplement to typical textbook education. Last but not least, the mass media plays a major part in providing entertainment to the masses.

One of the primary benefits that can be derived from the mass media would be its ability to disseminate information.

The mass media is used very widely as means of conveying information to many people and organizations due to its wide accessibility. In order to perform such a task, the mass media makes use of channels such as the television, radio, newspapers and the internet. According to the Global Television Conglomerates, 181.9 million people tune in to CNN daily which illustrates the sheer extent to which the mass media reaches out to people through the television. Therefore, it can be seen that society relies heavily upon the mass media for news. In addition, the World Press Trends has conducted a survey which shows that 75 percent of all adult is the United States of America read at least one newspaper weekly. Hence, without the mass media, they would be deprived of current news. Furthermore, besides being able to receive information, the public also...