Paul Marris

Paul Rotha

Sue Thornham

Caroline Bassett

Professor of Media and Cultural Studies Sue Thornham

Media Studies: A Reader provides a thorough introduction to the full range of theoretical perspectives on the mass media from the past thirty years. Ranging from the arguments between the American mass communication tradition and the Europe-centered Frankfurt School of the 1940s, to the analyses of communication technologies by Marshall McLuhan and Raymond Williams in the 1960s, Media Studies: A Reader maps the mass media field, its varied and often conflicting histories, and its current debates. Sixty-five articles provide comprehensive coverage of all the main theorists and approaches. The first half, Studying the Media, explores in detail three core elements of media studies: production and regulation of mass media; media texts; and reception and consumption of media. The second half brings together concrete examples of how theoretical debates can be realized in a series of case studies on soap operas, the news, and advertising. A general introduction and introductions to each section summarize and contextualize the debates. Contributors include: Theodor W. Adorno, Marshal McLuhan, Raymond Williams, Stuart Hall, Annette Kuhn, Jürgen Habermas, John Fiske, Richard Dyer, Niki Strange, Danae Clark, Angela McRobbie, Bill Nichols, Lynne Joyrich, David Morley, Ien Ang, Janice Radway, Henry Jenkins, Tania Modleski, Anne McClintock, Sadie Plant.

A Reader

Media Studies

Why are some people more capable than others? What are the reasons for someone gaining unusual abilities or special expertise, or being especially creative? What has to happen in order for a young person to become a child prodigy or genius? How can we help today's children to reach high levels of ability, and to shine in the arts or the sciences, in sports or games, or to excel in other fields of expertise? The Psychology of High Abilities explains how, when, and why people acquire such special expertise, and illuminates ways to make it possible for larger numbers of young people to extend their capabilities. Examining how and why people differ in their capabilities, it investigates the actual causes underlying impressive accomplishments and achievements. The volume reveals the kinds of influences that contribute to high abilities and provides practical insights into the most effective ways for extending the abilities of young people and creating higher levels of expertise.

Paul Marris

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