Unit 2 - Understanding Media

All means of communication, encompassing music, art, literature, newspapers, magazines, radio, television, social media, films, and more.

Communication forms passed down through generations within communities, often using local languages and cultures.

Traditional folk media is known as "Jan Madhyams" which means "people's media".

Folk media utilizes vocal, verbal, and visual art forms, such as dance, music, and storytelling, passed down through generations.

Folk dances blend traditional folk music and tales, effectively conveying messages through performance.

Folk media educates people about their culture, promotes government initiatives, and highlights community concerns.

"Tamasha" is a folk theatre style originating in Maharashtra known for its lively and engaging performances.

"Yakshagana" is a vibrant theatrical tradition from Karnataka, combining music, dance, and elaborate costumes.

A traditional folk theater form originating in Bengal and Odisha, known for its storytelling and vibrant costumes.

A dramatic performance that re-enacts the story of Lord Rama, usually performed during the festival of Dussehra.

A dance-drama form often depicting the love story of Radha and Krishna, popular in regions like Manipur and Vrindavan.

Any form of media delivered digitally, encompassing websites, emails, mobile apps, etc.

The traditional media like newspapers, magazines, and journals that are printed on physical paper.

Media that targets a large audience, like radio and television, reaching a broad spectrum of people.

Distribution of information to a specialized audience, targeting specific groups with tailored content.

A government-owned public broadcaster in India, responsible for television and radio services like Doordarshan and Akashvani.

The spread of false or misleading information, often intentionally, to manipulate public opinion.

Alternative media and citizen journalism often lack the resources of traditional media organizations, making it difficult to conduct in-depth investigations and cover stories comprehensively.

The ability to determine the truthfulness of information in a world where anyone can publish anything online.

The spread of information only within a group that agrees with it, leading to a narrow perspective and lack of diverse viewpoints.

Online spaces where users are only exposed to information that reinforces their own beliefs, leading to a lack of critical thinking.

Ethical dilemmas faced by citizen journalists, such as a lack of formal training in journalism ethics and potential conflicts of interest.

Government actions aimed at silencing citizen journalists and limiting the spread of information, often through censorship or intimidation.

The potential for alternative media and citizen journalism to be used to spread malicious content, targeting individuals or promoting specific agendas.

Media can inform us about current events, from local happenings to global news in areas like sports, health, politics, and business.

Media plays a crucial role in educating us on various topics, including our rights, scientific advancements, educational opportunities, and different subjects.

Media provides entertainment like movies, games, music, and TV shows to help us relax and enjoy ourselves.

Media acts as a watchdog, exposing wrongdoing by governments, politicians, and institutions, holding them accountable to the people.

Media presents diverse perspectives on events and issues, allowing us to compare viewpoints and form our own opinions.

Media can mobilize people to act collectively on important issues, bringing about change and influencing government actions.

Media transmits cultural values, norms, and practices, shaping our understanding of society and influencing our behaviors.

Media acts as a voice for society, representing its concerns, ideas, and perspectives to a wider audience.

The ability to critically analyze and evaluate media messages to understand their purpose, techniques, and impact on society.

The use of media to build and maintain relationships between organizations and their publics. It involves strategic communication to manage perceptions and build trust.

News reporting that focuses on sensationalism, often using exaggeration, sensationalism, and emotional appeals to attract audiences.

A form of radio broadcasting dedicated to serving the interests and needs of specific communities, often with a focus on local issues and concerns.

Radio broadcasting that serves a public purpose, often with a focus on providing educational, cultural, or informative content.

Radio broadcasting that operates primarily on a commercial basis, serving the interests of advertisers.

The media that operates primarily through digital means, like websites, social media, and mobile apps.

Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, which includes media freedom. However, Article 19(2) restricts this freedom based on grounds like national security and public order.

Media plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable by exposing corruption and wrongdoing. Examples include the Bofors scandal and the Coffingate scam, where investigative journalism brought these issues to light.

The World Press Freedom Index, compiled by Reporters Without Borders, assesses the level of press freedom in different countries. India's declining ranking from 140 in 2014 to 159 in 2024 indicates a worsening media freedom environment.

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) records media rights violations worldwide. In 2023, India saw several cases, including journalist killings and attacks on media practitioners.

Journalist Paranjoy Guha Thakurta expresses concern about a trend of media outlets avoiding critical questions. He believes this can hinder democratic progress and accountability.

Media freedom in India faces challenges, with concerns about censorship and suppression limiting journalists' ability to report freely. The government and powerful individuals can exert influence, impacting the media landscape.

Citizen journalism and alternative media can play a significant role in providing independent perspectives and covering issues that traditional media may overlook. However, they often face challenges like limited resources and potential ethical concerns.

The spread of misinformation and disinformation online creates a challenge for discerning accurate information. Filter bubbles and echo chambers contribute to biased information consumption, limiting exposure to diverse perspectives.