The significance of new media today
New media – anything that uses new technology that usually involves some process of convergence e.g. phones as they can now access the internet. New media is likely to be digital, interactive and dispersed (not controlled by a single source of professionals).
Democracy – rule by the people for the people
Users of new media
What they use it for
The general public
Social networking, shopping etc
Young people
Music downloads, social networking, education
Children
Online games and children’s websites
Single people
Social networking and dating websites
Celebrities
Promoting themselves; social networking
Criminals
Fraud, illegal download
Adults
Shopping, social networking
Statistics:
75% of households have internet access
80% use the internet and only 38% of those online have a social networking site.
Internet use is higher is younger people
Advertisers spend more money on internet adverts than TV adverts
The media is used for:
Buying and selling
Education
Social networking
Banking/paying bills
Access to news
Entertainment
Pros of new media on individual/society (OPTIMISTIC VIEW)
Cons of new media on individual/society (PESSIMISTIC VIEW)
Consumer society builds as it is cheaper and quicker for companies to advertise on the internet
Exploits WC and MEG’s through news, stereotypes, folk devils and media ampflication
Faster for many functions such as advertising and research etc
Reinforces digital divide as the RC are more likely to posses new media
The internet enables us to be democratic as it allows us to see and research information
Increases social isolation as those without new media feel less ‘involved’.
Allows us to have more knowledge and enhances us intellectually
Higher risk of criminal behaviour happening e.g. fraud, illegal downloads and paedophiles of children’s websites
Widens consumer choice
Lack of regulation – many things go uncensored and undiscovered