Mass Communications and Media Studies: An Introduction

(Paperback, 2nd edition)

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Description

Mass Communications and Media Studies: An Introduction, 2nd edition is a comprehensive yet concise survey of the history of mass communication media, discussing the current state of each medium, and anticipating the future of mass media. Divided into twelve chapters, it can be used in either 16-week semesters or 12-week terms. Retaining the successful organization of the 1st edition, Peyton Paxson writes in an accessible and well-organized manner, catering to both the needs of students and instructors. He begins each chapter with a list of the current issues and trends concerning the chapters topic, followed by a brief history of that topic, its current state, predictions for the future, an assessment of career opportunities, and discussion questions for critical thinking. More than just updating statistical data, the 2nd edition weaves in discussions of relevant contemporary issues, including crowdsourcing, going viral, interactive advertising, tv industry consolidation, the internet of things, conflicting ideas of net neutrality and their continuing implications in a more-connected world.

Reviews

This new edition of Mass Communications and Media Studies: An Introduction gives students an excellent overview of the various industries, technological forms, and social expressions that comprise this vast field. With clear and lively writing, author Peyton Paxson defines media terms succinctly and provides many apt and memorable examples. As a marketing and consumption historian, I particularly like the historical accounts featured in several chapters. Yet, the book is also quite timely including discussions of fake news, trolling, cybersquatting, crowd sourcing and funding, and revenge porn and sexting. As a teacher of international business, I welcome the many brief global perspectives sections and the final chapter on the interface between globalization and mass communications. For students, the book discusses potential careers and raises good end of chapter questions for critical thinking and discussion. -- Terrence H. Witkowski * Professor of Marketing and Director, International Business Program, California State University, Long Beach, USA *
The short and pointed approach to the chapter structure was excellent, and I liked the organization of the book .I am very happy that I found this text, and I am glad that such a basic yet broad introductory text is available. The book fills a unique position in the market; it is the only intro-level communication textbook that I have seen that is affordable, short and to the point, and approachable, even for students who do not have any formal training in (or knowledge of) communication or media studies. * Ryan Eanes, Assistant Professor of Business Management and Director of Minor in Marketing, Washington College, USA *

Author Bio

Peyton Paxson, J.D., Ph.D., is the author of a series of nine supplemental texts for high school and middle school students, called Media Literacy: Thinking Critically About. He teaches at Middlesex Community College, in Massachusetts, USA. For more information, visit www.peytonpaxson.com.