print media introduction essay

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1.3 The Evolution of Media

Learning objectives.

• Identify four roles the media performs in our society.
• Recognize events that affected the adoption of mass media.
• Explain how different technological transitions have shaped media industries.

In 2010, Americans could turn on their television and find 24-hour news channels as well as music videos, nature documentaries, and reality shows about everything from hoarders to fashion models. That’s not to mention movies available on demand from cable providers or television and video available online for streaming or downloading. Half of U.S. households receive a daily newspaper, and the average person holds 1.9 magazine subscriptions (State of the Media, 2004) (Bilton, 2007). A University of California, San Diego study claimed that U.S. households consumed a total of approximately 3.6 zettabytes of information in 2008—the digital equivalent of a 7-foot high stack of books covering the entire United States—a 350 percent increase since 1980 (Ramsey, 2009). Americans are exposed to media in taxicabs and buses, in classrooms and doctors’ offices, on highways, and in airplanes. We can begin to orient ourselves in the information cloud through parsing what roles the media fills in society, examining its history in society, and looking at the way technological innovations have helped bring us to where we are today.

What Does Media Do for Us?

Media fulfills several basic roles in our society. One obvious role is entertainment. Media can act as a springboard for our imaginations, a source of fantasy, and an outlet for escapism. In the 19th century, Victorian readers disillusioned by the grimness of the Industrial Revolution found themselves drawn into fantastic worlds of fairies and other fictitious beings. In the first decade of the 21st century, American television viewers could peek in on a conflicted Texas high school football team in Friday Night Lights ; the violence-plagued drug trade in Baltimore in The Wire ; a 1960s-Manhattan ad agency in Mad Men ; or the last surviving band of humans in a distant, miserable future in Battlestar Galactica . Through bringing us stories of all kinds, media has the power to take us away from ourselves.

Media can also provide information and education. Information can come in many forms, and it may sometimes be difficult to separate from entertainment. Today, newspapers and news-oriented television and radio programs make available stories from across the globe, allowing readers or viewers in London to access voices and videos from Baghdad, Tokyo, or Buenos Aires. Books and magazines provide a more in-depth look at a wide range of subjects. The free online encyclopedia Wikipedia has articles on topics from presidential nicknames to child prodigies to tongue twisters in various languages. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has posted free lecture notes, exams, and audio and video recordings of classes on its OpenCourseWare website, allowing anyone with an Internet connection access to world-class professors.

Another useful aspect of media is its ability to act as a public forum for the discussion of important issues. In newspapers or other periodicals, letters to the editor allow readers to respond to journalists or to voice their opinions on the issues of the day. These letters were an important part of U.S. newspapers even when the nation was a British colony, and they have served as a means of public discourse ever since. The Internet is a fundamentally democratic medium that allows everyone who can get online the ability to express their opinions through, for example, blogging or podcasting—though whether anyone will hear is another question.

Similarly, media can be used to monitor government, business, and other institutions. Upton Sinclair’s 1906 novel The Jungle exposed the miserable conditions in the turn-of-the-century meatpacking industry; and in the early 1970s, Washington Post reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein uncovered evidence of the Watergate break-in and subsequent cover-up, which eventually led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. But purveyors of mass media may be beholden to particular agendas because of political slant, advertising funds, or ideological bias, thus constraining their ability to act as a watchdog. The following are some of these agendas:

• Entertaining and providing an outlet for the imagination
• Educating and informing
• Serving as a public forum for the discussion of important issues
• Acting as a watchdog for government, business, and other institutions

It’s important to remember, though, that not all media are created equal. While some forms of mass communication are better suited to entertainment, others make more sense as a venue for spreading information. In terms of print media, books are durable and able to contain lots of information, but are relatively slow and expensive to produce; in contrast, newspapers are comparatively cheaper and quicker to create, making them a better medium for the quick turnover of daily news. Television provides vastly more visual information than radio and is more dynamic than a static printed page; it can also be used to broadcast live events to a nationwide audience, as in the annual State of the Union address given by the U.S. president. However, it is also a one-way medium—that is, it allows for very little direct person-to-person communication. In contrast, the Internet encourages public discussion of issues and allows nearly everyone who wants a voice to have one. However, the Internet is also largely unmoderated. Users may have to wade through thousands of inane comments or misinformed amateur opinions to find quality information.

The 1960s media theorist Marshall McLuhan took these ideas one step further, famously coining the phrase “ the medium is the message (McLuhan, 1964).” By this, McLuhan meant that every medium delivers information in a different way and that content is fundamentally shaped by the medium of transmission. For example, although television news has the advantage of offering video and live coverage, making a story come alive more vividly, it is also a faster-paced medium. That means more stories get covered in less depth. A story told on television will probably be flashier, less in-depth, and with less context than the same story covered in a monthly magazine; therefore, people who get the majority of their news from television may have a particular view of the world shaped not by the content of what they watch but its medium . Or, as computer scientist Alan Kay put it, “Each medium has a special way of representing ideas that emphasize particular ways of thinking and de-emphasize others (Kay, 1994).” Kay was writing in 1994, when the Internet was just transitioning from an academic research network to an open public system. A decade and a half later, with the Internet firmly ensconced in our daily lives, McLuhan’s intellectual descendants are the media analysts who claim that the Internet is making us better at associative thinking, or more democratic, or shallower. But McLuhan’s claims don’t leave much space for individual autonomy or resistance. In an essay about television’s effects on contemporary fiction, writer David Foster Wallace scoffed at the “reactionaries who regard TV as some malignancy visited on an innocent populace, sapping IQs and compromising SAT scores while we all sit there on ever fatter bottoms with little mesmerized spirals revolving in our eyes…. Treating television as evil is just as reductive and silly as treating it like a toaster with pictures (Wallace, 1997).” Nonetheless, media messages and technologies affect us in countless ways, some of which probably won’t be sorted out until long in the future.

A Brief History of Mass Media and Culture

Until Johannes Gutenberg’s 15th-century invention of the movable type printing press, books were painstakingly handwritten and no two copies were exactly the same. The printing press made the mass production of print media possible. Not only was it much cheaper to produce written material, but new transportation technologies also made it easier for texts to reach a wide audience. It’s hard to overstate the importance of Gutenberg’s invention, which helped usher in massive cultural movements like the European Renaissance and the Protestant Reformation. In 1810, another German printer, Friedrich Koenig, pushed media production even further when he essentially hooked the steam engine up to a printing press, enabling the industrialization of printed media. In 1800, a hand-operated printing press could produce about 480 pages per hour; Koenig’s machine more than doubled this rate. (By the 1930s, many printing presses could publish 3,000 pages an hour.)

This increased efficiency went hand in hand with the rise of the daily newspaper. The newspaper was the perfect medium for the increasingly urbanized Americans of the 19th century, who could no longer get their local news merely through gossip and word of mouth. These Americans were living in unfamiliar territory, and newspapers and other media helped them negotiate the rapidly changing world. The Industrial Revolution meant that some people had more leisure time and more money, and media helped them figure out how to spend both. Media theorist Benedict Anderson has argued that newspapers also helped forge a sense of national identity by treating readers across the country as part of one unified community (Anderson, 1991).

In the 1830s, the major daily newspapers faced a new threat from the rise of penny papers, which were low-priced broadsheets that served as a cheaper, more sensational daily news source. They favored news of murder and adventure over the dry political news of the day. While newspapers catered to a wealthier, more educated audience, the penny press attempted to reach a wide swath of readers through cheap prices and entertaining (often scandalous) stories. The penny press can be seen as the forerunner to today’s gossip-hungry tabloids.

The penny press appealed to readers’ desires for lurid tales of murder and scandal.

Wikimedia Commons – public domain.

In the early decades of the 20th century, the first major nonprint form of mass media—radio—exploded in popularity. Radios, which were less expensive than telephones and widely available by the 1920s, had the unprecedented ability of allowing huge numbers of people to listen to the same event at the same time. In 1924, Calvin Coolidge’s preelection speech reached more than 20 million people. Radio was a boon for advertisers, who now had access to a large and captive audience. An early advertising consultant claimed that the early days of radio were “a glorious opportunity for the advertising man to spread his sales propaganda” because of “a countless audience, sympathetic, pleasure seeking, enthusiastic, curious, interested, approachable in the privacy of their homes (Briggs & Burke, 2005).” The reach of radio also meant that the medium was able to downplay regional differences and encourage a unified sense of the American lifestyle—a lifestyle that was increasingly driven and defined by consumer purchases. “Americans in the 1920s were the first to wear ready-made, exact-size clothing…to play electric phonographs, to use electric vacuum cleaners, to listen to commercial radio broadcasts, and to drink fresh orange juice year round (Mintz, 2007).” This boom in consumerism put its stamp on the 1920s and also helped contribute to the Great Depression of the 1930s (Library of Congress). The consumerist impulse drove production to unprecedented levels, but when the Depression began and consumer demand dropped dramatically, the surplus of production helped further deepen the economic crisis, as more goods were being produced than could be sold.

The post–World War II era in the United States was marked by prosperity, and by the introduction of a seductive new form of mass communication: television. In 1946, about 17,000 televisions existed in the United States; within 7 years, two-thirds of American households owned at least one set. As the United States’ gross national product (GNP) doubled in the 1950s, and again in the 1960s, the American home became firmly ensconced as a consumer unit; along with a television, the typical U.S. household owned a car and a house in the suburbs, all of which contributed to the nation’s thriving consumer-based economy (Briggs & Burke, 2005). Broadcast television was the dominant form of mass media, and the three major networks controlled more than 90 percent of the news programs, live events, and sitcoms viewed by Americans. Some social critics argued that television was fostering a homogenous, conformist culture by reinforcing ideas about what “normal” American life looked like. But television also contributed to the counterculture of the 1960s. The Vietnam War was the nation’s first televised military conflict, and nightly images of war footage and war protesters helped intensify the nation’s internal conflicts.

Broadcast technology, including radio and television, had such a hold on the American imagination that newspapers and other print media found themselves having to adapt to the new media landscape. Print media was more durable and easily archived, and it allowed users more flexibility in terms of time—once a person had purchased a magazine, he or she could read it whenever and wherever. Broadcast media, in contrast, usually aired programs on a fixed schedule, which allowed it to both provide a sense of immediacy and fleetingness. Until the advent of digital video recorders in the late 1990s, it was impossible to pause and rewind a live television broadcast.

The media world faced drastic changes once again in the 1980s and 1990s with the spread of cable television. During the early decades of television, viewers had a limited number of channels to choose from—one reason for the charges of homogeneity. In 1975, the three major networks accounted for 93 percent of all television viewing. By 2004, however, this share had dropped to 28.4 percent of total viewing, thanks to the spread of cable television. Cable providers allowed viewers a wide menu of choices, including channels specifically tailored to people who wanted to watch only golf, classic films, sermons, or videos of sharks. Still, until the mid-1990s, television was dominated by the three large networks. The Telecommunications Act of 1996, an attempt to foster competition by deregulating the industry, actually resulted in many mergers and buyouts that left most of the control of the broadcast spectrum in the hands of a few large corporations. In 2003, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) loosened regulation even further, allowing a single company to own 45 percent of a single market (up from 25 percent in 1982).

Technological Transitions Shape Media Industries

New media technologies both spring from and cause social changes. For this reason, it can be difficult to neatly sort the evolution of media into clear causes and effects. Did radio fuel the consumerist boom of the 1920s, or did the radio become wildly popular because it appealed to a society that was already exploring consumerist tendencies? Probably a little bit of both. Technological innovations such as the steam engine, electricity, wireless communication, and the Internet have all had lasting and significant effects on American culture. As media historians Asa Briggs and Peter Burke note, every crucial invention came with “a change in historical perspectives.” Electricity altered the way people thought about time because work and play were no longer dependent on the daily rhythms of sunrise and sunset; wireless communication collapsed distance; the Internet revolutionized the way we store and retrieve information.

The transatlantic telegraph cable made nearly instantaneous communication between the United States and Europe possible for the first time in 1858.

Amber Case – 1858 trans-Atlantic telegraph cable route – CC BY-NC 2.0.

The contemporary media age can trace its origins back to the electrical telegraph, patented in the United States by Samuel Morse in 1837. Thanks to the telegraph, communication was no longer linked to the physical transportation of messages; it didn’t matter whether a message needed to travel 5 or 500 miles. Suddenly, information from distant places was nearly as accessible as local news, as telegraph lines began to stretch across the globe, making their own kind of World Wide Web. In this way, the telegraph acted as the precursor to much of the technology that followed, including the telephone, radio, television, and Internet. When the first transatlantic cable was laid in 1858, allowing nearly instantaneous communication from the United States to Europe, the London Times described it as “the greatest discovery since that of Columbus, a vast enlargement…given to the sphere of human activity.”

Not long afterward, wireless communication (which eventually led to the development of radio, television, and other broadcast media) emerged as an extension of telegraph technology. Although many 19th-century inventors, including Nikola Tesla, were involved in early wireless experiments, it was Italian-born Guglielmo Marconi who is recognized as the developer of the first practical wireless radio system. Many people were fascinated by this new invention. Early radio was used for military communication, but soon the technology entered the home. The burgeoning interest in radio inspired hundreds of applications for broadcasting licenses from newspapers and other news outlets, retail stores, schools, and even cities. In the 1920s, large media networks—including the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) and the Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS)—were launched, and they soon began to dominate the airwaves. In 1926, they owned 6.4 percent of U.S. broadcasting stations; by 1931, that number had risen to 30 percent.

Gone With the Wind defeated The Wizard of Oz to become the first color film ever to win the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1939.

Wikimedia Commons – public domain; Wikimedia Commons – public domain.

In addition to the breakthroughs in audio broadcasting, inventors in the 1800s made significant advances in visual media. The 19th-century development of photographic technologies would lead to the later innovations of cinema and television. As with wireless technology, several inventors independently created a form of photography at the same time, among them the French inventors Joseph Niépce and Louis Daguerre and the British scientist William Henry Fox Talbot. In the United States, George Eastman developed the Kodak camera in 1888, anticipating that Americans would welcome an inexpensive, easy-to-use camera into their homes as they had with the radio and telephone. Moving pictures were first seen around the turn of the century, with the first U.S. projection-hall opening in Pittsburgh in 1905. By the 1920s, Hollywood had already created its first stars, most notably Charlie Chaplin; by the end of the 1930s, Americans were watching color films with full sound, including Gone With the Wind and The Wizard of Oz .

Television—which consists of an image being converted to electrical impulses, transmitted through wires or radio waves, and then reconverted into images—existed before World War II, but gained mainstream popularity in the 1950s. In 1947, there were 178,000 television sets made in the United States; 5 years later, 15 million were made. Radio, cinema, and live theater declined because the new medium allowed viewers to be entertained with sound and moving pictures in their homes. In the United States, competing commercial stations (including the radio powerhouses of CBS and NBC) meant that commercial-driven programming dominated. In Great Britain, the government managed broadcasting through the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). Funding was driven by licensing fees instead of advertisements. In contrast to the U.S. system, the BBC strictly regulated the length and character of commercials that could be aired. However, U.S. television (and its increasingly powerful networks) still dominated. By the beginning of 1955, there were around 36 million television sets in the United States, but only 4.8 million in all of Europe. Important national events, broadcast live for the first time, were an impetus for consumers to buy sets so they could witness the spectacle; both England and Japan saw a boom in sales before important royal weddings in the 1950s.

In the 1960s, the concept of a useful portable computer was still a dream; huge mainframes were required to run a basic operating system.

In 1969, management consultant Peter Drucker predicted that the next major technological innovation would be an electronic appliance that would revolutionize the way people lived just as thoroughly as Thomas Edison’s light bulb had. This appliance would sell for less than a television set and be “capable of being plugged in wherever there is electricity and giving immediate access to all the information needed for school work from first grade through college.” Although Drucker may have underestimated the cost of this hypothetical machine, he was prescient about the effect these machines—personal computers—and the Internet would have on education, social relationships, and the culture at large. The inventions of random access memory (RAM) chips and microprocessors in the 1970s were important steps to the Internet age. As Briggs and Burke note, these advances meant that “hundreds of thousands of components could be carried on a microprocessor.” The reduction of many different kinds of content to digitally stored information meant that “print, film, recording, radio and television and all forms of telecommunications [were] now being thought of increasingly as part of one complex.” This process, also known as convergence, is a force that’s affecting media today.

Key Takeaways

Media fulfills several roles in society, including the following:

• entertaining and providing an outlet for the imagination,
• educating and informing,
• serving as a public forum for the discussion of important issues, and
• acting as a watchdog for government, business, and other institutions.
• Johannes Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press enabled the mass production of media, which was then industrialized by Friedrich Koenig in the early 1800s. These innovations led to the daily newspaper, which united the urbanized, industrialized populations of the 19th century.
• In the 20th century, radio allowed advertisers to reach a mass audience and helped spur the consumerism of the 1920s—and the Great Depression of the 1930s. After World War II, television boomed in the United States and abroad, though its concentration in the hands of three major networks led to accusations of homogenization. The spread of cable and subsequent deregulation in the 1980s and 1990s led to more channels, but not necessarily to more diverse ownership.
• Transitions from one technology to another have greatly affected the media industry, although it is difficult to say whether technology caused a cultural shift or resulted from it. The ability to make technology small and affordable enough to fit into the home is an important aspect of the popularization of new technologies.

Choose two different types of mass communication—radio shows, television broadcasts, Internet sites, newspaper advertisements, and so on—from two different kinds of media. Make a list of what role(s) each one fills, keeping in mind that much of what we see, hear, or read in the mass media has more than one aspect. Then, answer the following questions. Each response should be a minimum of one paragraph.

• To which of the four roles media plays in society do your selections correspond? Why did the creators of these particular messages present them in these particular ways and in these particular mediums?
• What events have shaped the adoption of the two kinds of media you selected?
• How have technological transitions shaped the industries involved in the two kinds of media you have selected?

Anderson, Benedict Imagined Communities: Reflections on the Origin and Spread of Nationalism , (London: Verso, 1991).

Bilton, Jim. “The Loyalty Challenge: How Magazine Subscriptions Work,” In Circulation , January/February 2007.

Briggs and Burke, Social History of the Media .

Briggs, Asa and Peter Burke, A Social History of the Media: From Gutenberg to the Internet (Malden, MA: Polity Press, 2005).

Kay, Alan. “The Infobahn Is Not the Answer,” Wired , May 1994.

Library of Congress, “Radio: A Consumer Product and a Producer of Consumption,” Coolidge-Consumerism Collection, http://lcweb2.loc.gov:8081/ammem/amrlhtml/inradio.html .

McLuhan, Marshall. Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man , (New York: McGraw-Hill, 1964).

Mintz, Steven “The Jazz Age: The American 1920s: The Formation of Modern American Mass Culture,” Digital History , 2007, http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/database/article_display.cfm?hhid=454 .

Ramsey, Doug. “UC San Diego Experts Calculate How Much Information Americans Consume” UC San Diego News Center, December 9, 2009, http://ucsdnews.ucsd.edu/newsrel/general/12-09Information.asp .

State of the Media, project for Excellence in Journalism, The State of the News Media 2004 , http://www.stateofthemedia.org/2004/ .

Wallace, David Foster “E Unibus Pluram: Television and U.S. Fiction,” in A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again (New York: Little Brown, 1997).

Understanding Media and Culture Copyright © 2016 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Essay on Media: Short and Long Sample Essays

• Updated on  
• Dec 18, 2023

Media plays an important role in shaping our perceptions, influencing public opinion, and connecting individuals across the globe. The role of media in today’s modern world is not limited to just providing information. There are three basic purposes of media; inform, educate, and entertain. A society with free media allows it to have a social and cultural impact on it. Media offers us information about every activity going on in the world. Our smartphones, laptops, televisions, radios, and even public transportation have access to media, where we can watch news anytime and anywhere. Media not only influence our thoughts but can often manipulate our understanding of a particular topic. Continue reading essay on media to know more. Stay tuned!

Also Read: Social Media Bane or Boon

Also Read: Essay on Colonialism

Short Essay on Media

‘Media plays an important role in shaping our perceptions, influencing public opinion, and connecting individuals across the globe. Media includes different platforms such as television, radio, newspapers, and the internet. Media is considered a powerful tool to disseminate information and have social, cultural, and political influences on the masses.’

Some of the roles played by the media are:

• Informing the public through newspapers, news channels, and online portals.
• At the push of a button, media can provide us with a large source of information.
• Media has a significant impact on public opinion by framing issues, influencing perceptions, and shaping narratives.
• Some media platforms are considered political watchdogs, scrutinizing the actions of government officials and institutions. 
• Several media platforms rely on advertising revenue, and in turn, they provide a platform for businesses to promote their products and services.

Media can have both positive and negative impacts on an individual and society as a whole. Understanding the role of media and its limitations is important when watching or reading news. Media is meant for informational purposes. Its influence can vary from person to person. Media is a double-edged sword, which can have a negative or positive impact on our understanding, depending on how we perceive information.

Also Read: Essay on Social Issues

Long Essay on Media

‘Media is a great source of information. Some watch media for entertainment, while others for information or educational purposes. The way we perceive media can have a great impact on our understanding of a particular topic or information. In recent years, the influence of media has significantly increased. The role and influence of media is not limited and can take different forms. Newspapers and radio stations are some of the old and most preferred media sources as compared to television and internet media sources. The choices made by editors, the emphasis given to certain stories, and the narratives crafted can significantly impact how we perceive the world.

Types of Media

There are different types of media, which determine our choices.

News media comprises various platforms like SMS, blogs, email, internet, etc. These platforms are used to access and disseminate economic, social and political information. It offers new ways to develop business relationships with telecommunication companies that are capable of disseminating critical information that can change people’s lives.

Mass media includes print (newspapers, magazines), TV and radio. Due to the fast-paced TV and radio media platforms, there has been a significant decline in newspaper readership all over the world. However, there is a section of a group who still prefer newspapers as the best sources of information. On the other hand, TV and radio stations offer live information from different parts of the world.

Community Media

Community media focuses on the development and issues of a particular community. Some journalists work for community newspapers and radio stations within their community. They have their geographical limitations and sometimes are poorly resourced with immature journalists and editors.

What is the Role of Media?

‘Media plays multiple roles, educating and informing us about different fields. Media is not only there for news but also produces some amazing stories, documentaries, magazine programs and articles through its platforms.’

‘Media allows us to raise awareness and public voice against any unethical activity or decision of the government. Apart from sharing information, media has the power to be a catalyst for social change. It serves as a platform for advocacy, shedding light on injustices, and human rights violations, and inspiring collective action. 

We have witnessed how movements for equality and justice have gained momentum through the amplifying effect of media. As responsible citizens, we should support and engage with media that contributes to positive social change.

Different Roles of People in Media

Different people play different roles in the media and mass communication sector. 

• Board of Directors – Their job is to ensure that everyone within the organization fulfills their responsibilities within the given framework. They are the real policymakers within the organization. They are not responsible for day-to-day media programs. Their job is not to influence the work of editorial staff and junior journalists. 
• Media Manager – They are responsible for the formulation and implementation of policies for employees. They keep a check on what their media covers, how they have to do it, and what resources are required for everyday media coverage.
• Editors – There are different editorial teams, based on their roles and responsibilities. It includes editor-in-chief, special projects, financial, business, assignment, entertainment, etc. They are the gatekeepers because they are the final decision-makers on what will be published. They also guide journalists on the sources they would like to see in the story. 
• Sub-editors – They are an important part of a media house as they determine the ‘End product.’ Their role is to edit stories of structure, measure lengths of stories, check factual details, etc. They are responsible for writing news headlines and captions for photographs. These people have to work under strict deadlines. Because of this, their decision can be detrimental to the published stories.
• Reporter/ Journalist – They are the news hunters and gatherers. They make decisions on which stories to cover. It is critical to identify which journalists cover your type of issues and develop a relationship with them. 

Related Articles

Ans: Media plays an important role in shaping our perceptions, influencing public opinion, and connecting individuals across the globe. Media includes different platforms such as television, radio, newspapers, and the internet. 

Ans: There are three types of media: New media, Community media, and mass media.

Ans: Several people perform different roles in a media house, including reporters or journalists, sub-editors, editors, media managers, and the board of directors.

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With an experience of over a year, I've developed a passion for writing blogs on wide range of topics. I am mostly inspired from topics related to social and environmental fields, where you come up with a positive outcome.

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The Evolution of Print Media: A Comprehensive Exploration

The evolution of print media: a glimpse into ancient times.

The evolution of print media can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where various forms of written communication were utilized. Ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia recorded their histories, laws, and stories on clay tablets, papyrus [i] , and stone inscriptions. Standardized communication marked a significant step forward with the invention of writing systems like hieroglyphics [ii] and cuneiform [iii] .

In This Article

The invention of paper in Han Dynasty China (about 105 CE) was a turning point in the development of the print media. While writers still had to transcribe documents manually, this innovation greatly facilitated the production of written materials. However, the innovations in printing technology in the later centuries truly revolutionized how information was disseminated.

The Gutenberg Revolution: Birth of the Printing Press

The development of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in 1440 was one of the most revolutionary events in the history of print media. The invention harnessed the power of moveable type, enabling the mass production of books and other printed goods. His Bible, printed in 1455, is regarded as the first significant book to be printed using this revolutionary technology. This breakthrough marked the beginning of the mass production of books, making disseminating knowledge more accessible and affordable.

The printing press had a significant effect on the growth of print media. It enabled the dissemination of knowledge and played a crucial part in the Renaissance, a time characterized by a renewed interest in the arts, sciences, and classical studies. With the emergence of printed books, education became more accessible to a larger portion of society, resulting in increased literacy rates and a shift in how people acquired knowledge.

The Era of Newspapers: Informing the Masses

As print technology continued to advance, newspapers emerged in the 17th century. The “Relation” was published in Strasbourg in 1605, followed by the “London Gazette” in 1665. These early newspapers were often published weekly or monthly, informing readers about current events, commerce, and politics.

In the 18th century, newspapers proliferated throughout Europe and the American colonies. These newspapers were indispensable to political debate and crucial in molding public opinion. In the United States, publications such as Benjamin Franklin’s “The Pennsylvania Gazette” contributed to disseminating ideas that sparked the American Revolution.

Birth of Print Media in India

The history of print media in India began in the 16th century when European missionaries and merchants introduced printing technology. In 1556, the Portuguese created the first printing press in India in Goa to disseminate Christian literature. However, the turning point occurred in the early 18th century when Irishman James Augustus Hicky published “Hicky’s Bengal Gazette” in Calcutta in 1780. (now Kolkata). It is primarily regarded as India’s first newspaper, marking the beginning of Indian journalism.

Industrialization and the Mass Circulation Press

Significant advances in print technology were made during the 19th century, coinciding with the rising industrialization of Western countries. The newspaper industry was changed by innovations such as steam-powered printing presses, mechanical typesetting, and the employment of high-speed machines. This era witnessed the emergence of the mass circulation press, which was marked by daily publications and lower prices.

Due to their low pricing, penny newspapers, such as “The New York Sun” and “The Daily Mail” in the United States and the United Kingdom, made newspapers more accessible to the working class. This period also saw the birth of sensationalism in journalism, as newspapers battled for readership with attention-grabbing headlines and scandalous stories.

Early Growth and Struggles of Print Media in India

India had a tremendous expansion of print media in the 19th century. During this time, the impact of newspapers such as “The Hindu” (formed in 1878) and “ The Times of India ” (started in 1838) began to take shape. These publications were crucial in shaping public opinion and establishing a spirit of nationalism.

During the colonial era, the Indian press was also subject to censorship and repression, as many legislation and laws tried to restrict press freedom. For instance, the Vernacular Press Act of 1878 sought to regulate regional-language journals. Despite this, Indian journalists and publications persisted in their efforts to inform and inspire the masses.

The Role of Print Media in the Independence Movement of India

Print media played a crucial part in India’s freedom struggle. Leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru utilized newspapers and magazines to promote their goals and rally public support. Gandhi’s “Harijan” and “Young India” were effective spokespersons for his nonviolent resistance movement.

Post-Independence Era

In 1947, when India gained independence, the print media scene witnessed a tremendous transformation. The Indian Constitution guaranteed freedom of the press, and this newfound liberty created a thriving and diverse media environment. The circulation of “The Times of India,” “The Indian Express,” and “Hindustan Times” increased significantly as they became influential voices in the Indian media landscape. Alongside English-language media, regional language newspapers began to develop, catering to India’s unique linguistic and cultural landscape. These publications include “Amar Ujala” (Hindi), “Anandabazar Patrika” (Bengali), and “Dainik Bhaskar” (Hindi).

Print Media in the 20th Century: Challenges and Innovations.

For print media, the 20th century was a century of contrasts. On the one hand, it experienced extraordinary development and innovation, while on the other, it faced problems posed by evolving technology and competition from other media types.

The introduction of color printing and advancements in photojournalism expanded the visual attractiveness of newspapers and magazines. World War I and World War II highlighted the significance of print media as a news and information source. During this time, newspapers such as “The New York Times” and “The Times of London” gained international fame.

In the latter half of the 20th century, television and radio emerged as the primary forms of mass communication. Print media faced the challenge of adapting to these new mediums. Nonetheless, it found ways to innovate, introducing new forms such as tabloid newspapers and magazines catering to specific interests such as fashion, entertainment, and way of life.

The Digital Revolution: Navigating the Information Age

The digital revolution of the late 20th and early 21st centuries changed the print media landscape. The advent of the Internet and digital technology presented both benefits and obstacles. Online news websites and digital editions of newspapers and magazines allowed global distribution and real-time updates. However, the ease of internet publication has led to questions regarding the quality and accuracy of information.

Print media organizations had to adapt quickly to the digital age by developing online presences, embracing multimedia storytelling, and introducing paywalls and subscription structures to maintain revenue. Social media platforms have further transformed news dissemination, as information may be instantly and virally disseminated.

Indian Print Media in the Digital Age

The introduction of offset printing, the computerization of editing operations, and the use of satellite technology for news distribution enhanced the quality and effectiveness of print media in India.

However, the greatest dramatic development occurred in the 1990s with the introduction of the Internet. Newspapers and publications have embraced online media, expanding their global readership reach. The “The Times of India” website was created in 1997, followed by other major publications.

The Contemporary Landscape: Print Media Today

Print media has evolved into a multi-platform enterprise in the 21st century. Traditional newspapers and magazines continue to exist in print and digital modes, while independent journalism websites and new media channels have flourished. The accessibility of smartphones and tablets has increased the reach of print media by enabling readers to access content on the go.

In-depth reporting, investigative journalism, and lengthy narratives rely heavily on the printed word. Magazines like The New Yorker and National Geographic continue to prosper, giving readers in-depth analysis, photographs, and captivating storylines.

Print media remains a powerful and dynamic industry in India. Leading newspapers such as “The Times of India” and “The Indian Express” maintain a significant print and digital presence, appealing to a varied audience. Regional language newspapers have also adapted to the digital age, ensuring that news is available to speakers of various Indian languages.

Print media continues to be a critical source of news and information, particularly for those who prefer the tactile experience of reading a physical newspaper. In addition, the editorial standards and investigative journalism of Indian publications remain vital in holding those in power accountable.

Challenges and Controversies

From the first newspaper in the late 18th century to the digital transformation in the 21st century, Indian print media has been instrumental in informing, influencing, and reflecting the diverse voices of the nation. However, there have been concerns about the independence and integrity of the print media.  Occasionally, the issue of paid journalism, sensationalism, and biased reporting has damaged the reputation of certain publications. Despite this, Indian print media has continued to provide the public with trustworthy, educational, and thought-provoking information.

The rise and development of print media are evidence of human brilliance, technological advancement, and the medium’s continuing relevance. From the earliest forms of written communication to the digital age, print media has adapted to shifting societal requirements and technological advances. It has been instrumental in changing societies, stimulating public dialogue, and sharing information.

Print media is an important component of mass communication and journalism in the information era, coexisting with digital platforms and providing a unique and useful perspective. In an ever-changing media world, its capacity to provide in-depth reporting, critical analysis, and long-form narratives maintains its sustained relevance.

[i] Papyrus is a tall, grass-like plant, used by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans as a writing material.

[ii] Hieroglyphics is a form of writing that uses pictures or symbols to represent objects, concepts, or sounds. Hieroglyphics were used in ancient Egypt and other writing systems.

[iii] Cuneiform is an ancient writing system that was used in the Middle East. Cuneiform was first developed by the ancient Sumerians of Mesopotamia around 3500 BCE. It was used to record literature, such as the Epic of Gilgamesh, and to communicate and formalize legal systems, such as Hammurabi’s Code. Cuneiform was used until the 1st century BC.

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Research Essay: Influence of Electronic Media on Print Media

Electronic media such as the Internet, e-books and tablet readers may be having an effect on the print media sector. This essay finds out if there is any validity to this argument.

Digital media does seem to have had an impact on the modern world, both affecting the online world and the offline business sectors, as well as world markets. It has certainly affected the communications sector and so it is plausible that it has affected print media too. (G5lo, 2013).

Since the year 2003, the amount of printed material in use for recreational purposes has gone down whilst the use of TV and other electronic media has gone up. This may indicate that digital media is having a direct influence on print media. (Wala, 2009).

Children are being encouraged towards digital media because there is more of it and because it is easier for parents when trying to entertain children. This means that children will grow to love digital media whilst ignoring print media. This is going to affect the print media sector in the long run. (Farnia, 2012).

Print media is easier to use and read which may be why it has not sunk out of our society completely. But, the read availability, convenience and price of digital media means that it may soon replace print media permanently. (Withers, 2012).

Studying may always rely on reading material, which begs the question of whether print media is going to fall from existence completely. It would appear that the transition from print media to digital media has been a lot slower in the academic world. And yet, it is conceivable that print media will be replaced by more convenient tablet devices in the future. (Ezeji, 2012).

Data does suggest that digital media is having an influence on the popularity of printed media, and that children are going to grow up to be fond of digital media. Print media is easier to read, but that is just one benefit of print media, where digital media has many benefits.

The evidence points towards the fact that digital media is influencing print media. But, the sliding popularity of print media may be more to do with social factors such as children are reading less. On the other hand, the benefits of digital media do seem to significantly outweigh the benefits of printed media.

Even though the reasons for the decline of print media popularity are unclear, it cannot be argued that digital media is rising. It may be rising as it replaces printed media, or it may be pushing printed media out of the arena. The two factors may be completely unrelated, but given the evidence provided on this essay, and the subsequent analysis and evaluation, I conclude that digital media is influencing print media.

Ezeji, E.C. (2012). Influence of Electronic Media on Reading Ability of School Children. Library Philosophy and Practice 2012. 1 (1), pp.1-114

Farnia (2012). Print and electronic media feeding us with information. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.essayforum.com/writing-feedback-3/print-electronic-media-feeding-us-information-37965/. [Last Accessed 22nd August 2013].

G5lo (2013). Impact of Electronic Media on the Society. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.g5lo.org.uk/index.php/8-communication/2-impact-of-electronic-media-on-the-society. [Last Accessed 22nd August 2013].

Wala, N, P. (2009). Electronic Media Stealing the Print Media’s Share! . [ONLINE] Available at: http://propakistani.pk/2009/01/30/electronic-media-stealing-the-print-media-share/. [Last Accessed 22nd August 2013].

Withers, J. (2012). Print Media Vs. Electronic Media. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.ehow.com/about_5548825_print-media-vs-electronic-media.html. [Last Accessed 22nd August 2013].

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Print Media Vs Electronic Media

We are living in a rapidly developing and modernized era where technology is taking charge in every walks of our life. This technology may come with many advantages and disadvantages as well. Every development is due to rapid modernization, improvement of old administration methods and the use of new technology to make things even better. However, with the growing modernization, human demand for knowledge is also increasing. Media serves an important role in keeping people informed about the events and innovations around the globe. This information may reach us in two forms, either through print media which is the oldest method, or the other one can be electronic media. With the improvement of electronic media during the past few years and daily reports on achievements, electronic media has dominated over print media during the past few years. Print media is the oldest form of Mass Media, and still not outdated. Daily about 70% of people start their day by reading a newspaper, which is the oldest media around the world. The newspaper gives us information about the whole world within a few minutes of a reading session, with a choice to skip the topics that we are not really interested in.

Print Media still forms an important part of Media Industry which has been given a competition by electronic media and a new technology called e-newspaper applications. But still, newspaper holds its value even today and is competing strongly with technology backed media. Basically said, words printed with ink on paper that is attached in different ways provide different kinds of information, education and entertainment. These may consist of chapters or themes, pictures, advertising and so on and the emphasis is made on makeup and an attractive appearance.

Print Media

Printing is a process for reproducing text and images, typically with ink on paper using a printing press. It is often carried out as a large-scale industrial process and is an essential part of publishing and transaction printing. Print media make use of the printing means to spread some news, information or message among a large number of people. Print gives a broader range of access to the knowledge about the particular topic and enables future generations to build directly on the intellectual achievements of earlier ones without the changes arising from verbal traditions. Print media today is being challenged by its electronic counterpart. But there are several unique advantages that help both the mediums to create a niche place in the media industry. Print media is more capable than electronic media to deliver localized news that may interest city or district residents, also helpful for educational purpose. Print media can be in the form of newspaper, magazines, book or printed journals and pamphlets.

Three Important Types of Print Media

• Newspapers, that unite news, articles and advertisement in a frequent and regular manner and present them in an attractive manner that creates interest of the reader along with providing accurate and authentic information about the latest events around the world and other aspects of life - related to health, entertainment and other social grounds.
• Magazines focus on deeper research on the particular topic. Magazines generally offer feature stories, interpretation, interviews, analysis or research. The basic feature of the magazine is its focus towards a particular topic. Whereas a newspaper contains information from every social aspect of life, the magazines concentrate their complete focus over a particular topic and provide a complete research analysis on that topic. For example, there are certain magazines available in the market that focuses particularly on a single topic like fashion, technology, cars or interior.
• Another form of print media includes books; these can be seen as the cultural heritage providing literature, scientific reports, history etc. The books can be referred to as textbooks or general literature or storybooks available in the market which still holds its readership even today. There are many, who are still addicted to the novel stories or some short stories by various writers. These books are not only in the form of stories but also in the form of biographies, about historical events, some research work or may contain views about some social cause.

Print Media has educated and informed masses for a long time and is searching for a large audience, but it mainly refers to educated readers and those who are not used to handle electronic media. Newspapers, as well as magazines, are financed through advertising and circulation which makes the ad more effective. It’s not so easy to publish a book successfully without proper funding, which is provided by the advertisers or publishers.

Electronic Media

Electronic media use electronics or electromechanical energy for the audience to access the content. This electronic information may be accessed in many ways, either through the internet, television or radio. This is in contrast to static media (mainly print media), which today are most commonly created electronically, but never required electronics to be accessed by the user, and are generally in the printed form. The primary electronic media sources familiar to the general public are in the form of a news channel, radio presentation, video recordings, audio recordings, multimedia presentations, CD-ROM and online content. Most new media are in the form of digital media. However, electronic media may be in either analogue or digital format. Any equipment used in the electronic communication may be considered electronic media and this equipment may include television, radio, computer or telephone. The news is the most common form of electronic media. Information on current events which is presented by print, broadcast, Internet, or word of mouth to a third-party or mass audience is provided by the news channels.

Electronic media has emerged as a powerful source for making people aware of the latest happenings around the world. Today there are more than 100 news channels giving information about various national and international events related to the field of sports, business, politics and fashion. These days there are special channels dedicated variously for sports and business etc. that telecast news related to these to these areas only. One can easily access these channels without paying anything extra. Also, there are separate channels and articles available on the internet that discuss a particular topic and make you aware of the various facts about your desired topic.

General Comparison between Print Media and Electronic Media

Both print media and electronic media are in a constant state of competition, both competing to super pass each other. Both of the media have their own set of unique features that make them distinct from one another. These basic points of difference are:

• Choice of reading, that is the user is free to read anytime from the newspaper, whatever he wishes to read and can be carried anywhere.
• The much affordable form of media, when compared with the electronic media
• For an individual, it’s quite an easy proof for any sort of information – People especially living in rural areas can easily afford a newspaper as compared to TV etc.
• The user does not require any kind of medium like radio, television etc. for the data transmission
• It is your choice to access this media at any point of time, not like electric media where a program is telecasted at a particular prescribed time.
• The relatively easier form of accessibility public for campaigns etc
• Print media allows the reader to store away articles that be used any time in the future.
• A more advanced form of media.
• Introduces relatively more revenues and job opportunities as compared to the printed forms
• The relatively more innovative form of media and includes motion pictures, animation etc. which make things even more attractive
• A variety of options available, unlike print media where one has to stick on to a single set of document. People can surf through different channels, site etc. whatever they like or want
• Very appropriate for immediate broadcast like the result of instant Elections, reviews of public and some match results
• Works better for people with hearing and seeing disabilities.
• Can be reached faster and can be made LIVE.  
• Can be very effective for spreading awareness at the national and international level
• The standard of television news is deteriorating much faster than that of print media.

Comparison of Popularity between Print and Electronic Media

Electronic Media Electronic media is gaining more popularity these days. During earlier times people depended on newspapers when there was no other source of news and information and sometimes got to know about facts quite late. The major limitation of print media was that only the urban people and those who were well educated could read newspapers. The Electronics media has replaced print with better and fast flowing news and information. Those who cannot read can watch and listen to the news broadcast on television and radio respectively. Also, it is an advantage for visually impaired people. Today electronic media has spread everywhere, both in urban and rural areas. Electronic media has become so effective that we watch live telecasts. The best part of Electronics media is that it gives life picture and the scenes of the places of incidents and that too without much delay.

With electronic media, it has become possible to see all National and International programs straightaway and watch the movements of the crowd with some live action transmission also becoming popular with this media. Another added advantage for electronic media is that we all see the news and happenings in TV so many times during the day that it neutralizes the interest to read the same news in the newspapers again the next day. There are a large number of news channels available on television these days broadcasting different information and programs. There are many people interested in watching the burning topics or very commonly termed as breaking news of the day and also very much interested to hear comments of prominent people about the current events or in case of some important event. This participation of some prominent people in the matter concerning general people makes it more interesting and more informative. The electronics media thus updates the knowledge of the people.

Print Media We may say that electronic media is trying to dominate over the print media these days, but we cannot close our eyes to print media. Print media in every form has its own importance and prominence which cannot be replaced by anyone else. Today there is a tight competition between the newspaper and the electronic medium. Also the competition among various newspapers is also increasing day by day which has made the print media cheaper, qualitative, informative and fast. The print media always is accurate information in detail. The journalists and editors of newspapers are more efficient and experienced than those of TV who just hire people based on looks rather than their journalism skills. Experience and well-qualified journalists are successful in presenting information in an analytic manner, which helps the reader to be clear about the facts and the subjects and also create their interest to read further. What we generally see on TV is only the highlights and a lot glamorized version. Nevertheless, for detailed information, we go through newspapers, which give it in a broader manner about any matter or happenings.

We cannot disagree over the fact that the utility of print media will always remain informative to help a man to progress in his life. In all newspapers, the editorial page contains the broader views of the prominent editors on the current and sensitive issues, which give the detail and structural information about the matters and also the views of some prominent people over the common issues of the community, state or country. The intellectuals generally are keen to study such matters from the editorial section of the newspaper. Print media covers all possible major and minor information sources and highlights even national and international events. Print media is famous to make sectioning of topics with the aim to give specific and broader information, and these sections may include information from the field of sports, politics or business.

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• How to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples

How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on February 4, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A good introduction paragraph is an essential part of any academic essay . It sets up your argument and tells the reader what to expect.

The main goals of an introduction are to:

• Catch your reader’s attention.
• Give background on your topic.
• Present your thesis statement —the central point of your essay.

This introduction example is taken from our interactive essay example on the history of Braille.

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

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Table of contents

Step 1: hook your reader, step 2: give background information, step 3: present your thesis statement, step 4: map your essay’s structure, step 5: check and revise, more examples of essay introductions, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.

Your first sentence sets the tone for the whole essay, so spend some time on writing an effective hook.

Avoid long, dense sentences—start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

The hook should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of the topic you’re writing about and why it’s interesting. Avoid overly broad claims or plain statements of fact.

Examples: Writing a good hook

Take a look at these examples of weak hooks and learn how to improve them.

• Braille was an extremely important invention.
• The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

The first sentence is a dry fact; the second sentence is more interesting, making a bold claim about exactly  why the topic is important.

• The internet is defined as “a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities.”
• The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education.

Avoid using a dictionary definition as your hook, especially if it’s an obvious term that everyone knows. The improved example here is still broad, but it gives us a much clearer sense of what the essay will be about.

• Mary Shelley’s  Frankenstein is a famous book from the nineteenth century.
• Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement.

Instead of just stating a fact that the reader already knows, the improved hook here tells us about the mainstream interpretation of the book, implying that this essay will offer a different interpretation.

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Next, give your reader the context they need to understand your topic and argument. Depending on the subject of your essay, this might include:

• Historical, geographical, or social context
• An outline of the debate you’re addressing
• A summary of relevant theories or research about the topic
• Definitions of key terms

The information here should be broad but clearly focused and relevant to your argument. Don’t give too much detail—you can mention points that you will return to later, but save your evidence and interpretation for the main body of the essay.

How much space you need for background depends on your topic and the scope of your essay. In our Braille example, we take a few sentences to introduce the topic and sketch the social context that the essay will address:

Now it’s time to narrow your focus and show exactly what you want to say about the topic. This is your thesis statement —a sentence or two that sums up your overall argument.

This is the most important part of your introduction. A  good thesis isn’t just a statement of fact, but a claim that requires evidence and explanation.

The goal is to clearly convey your own position in a debate or your central point about a topic.

Particularly in longer essays, it’s helpful to end the introduction by signposting what will be covered in each part. Keep it concise and give your reader a clear sense of the direction your argument will take.

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As you research and write, your argument might change focus or direction as you learn more.

For this reason, it’s often a good idea to wait until later in the writing process before you write the introduction paragraph—it can even be the very last thing you write.

When you’ve finished writing the essay body and conclusion , you should return to the introduction and check that it matches the content of the essay.

It’s especially important to make sure your thesis statement accurately represents what you do in the essay. If your argument has gone in a different direction than planned, tweak your thesis statement to match what you actually say.

To polish your writing, you can use something like a paraphrasing tool .

You can use the checklist below to make sure your introduction does everything it’s supposed to.

Checklist: Essay introduction

My first sentence is engaging and relevant.

I have introduced the topic with necessary background information.

I have defined any important terms.

My thesis statement clearly presents my main point or argument.

Everything in the introduction is relevant to the main body of the essay.

You have a strong introduction - now make sure the rest of your essay is just as good.

• Argumentative
• Literary analysis

This introduction to an argumentative essay sets up the debate about the internet and education, and then clearly states the position the essay will argue for.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

This introduction to a short expository essay leads into the topic (the invention of the printing press) and states the main point the essay will explain (the effect of this invention on European society).

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

This introduction to a literary analysis essay , about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein , starts by describing a simplistic popular view of the story, and then states how the author will give a more complex analysis of the text’s literary devices.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale. Arguably the first science fiction novel, its plot can be read as a warning about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, and in popular culture representations of the character as a “mad scientist”, Victor Frankenstein represents the callous, arrogant ambition of modern science. However, far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to gradually transform our impression of Frankenstein, portraying him in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

• An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
• Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
• A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

The “hook” is the first sentence of your essay introduction . It should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of why it’s interesting.

To write a good hook, avoid overly broad statements or long, dense sentences. Try to start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

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McCombes, S. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 23, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/introduction/

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Difference between Print Media and Electronic Media

1. Print Media:  

Print media is a form of mass media as the name suggests the news or information is shared through printed publications. Printed media is the oldest means of sharing information/news. In printed media, the news or information is published in hard copy and then it is released which is more reader-friendly. The main types of print media include newspapers, magazines, and books. In print media Live show, Live discussion, and Live reporting is not possible it is based on the interval update method. 

Advantages:

• Tangibility: Print media offers a physical copy of the content, which readers can hold and read at their convenience.
• Credibility: Print media, such as newspapers and magazines, are considered to be more credible than electronic media due to the rigorous fact-checking process they undergo.
• Targeted audience: Print media can be targeted towards specific demographics, making it easier for businesses to reach their intended audience.
• Longer shelf-life: Print media has a longer shelf life than electronic media, as it can be stored for a long time and can be re-read multiple times.

Disadvantages:

• Limited reach: Print media has a limited reach, as it is distributed only to specific locations and to those who purchase or subscribe to the publication.
• Cost: Producing print media can be expensive, as it involves the cost of printing, distribution, and storage.
• Time constraints: Print media has a longer production cycle, as it takes time to write, edit, print, and distribute the content.

2. Electronic Media:  

Electronic Media is a form of mass media as the name suggests the news or information is shared through electronic medium. Electronic media is the advanced means of sharing information/news. In electronic media, the news or information is uploaded or broadcasted and then it can be viewed through electronic mediums which is more viewer-friendly. The main types of electronic media include television news, News through mobile apps, etc. In electronic media Live shows, Live discussions, Live reporting is possible as it is based on an immediate update method. 

• Wider reach: Electronic media has a wider reach than print media, as it can be accessed anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
• Interactivity: Electronic media allows for greater interactivity with the audience, such as through comments, social media shares, and live streams.
• Cost-effective: Electronic media is often cheaper to produce and distribute than print media.
• Real-time updates: Electronic media can be updated in real-time, making it ideal for breaking news and live events.
• Short shelf-life: Electronic media has a shorter shelf life than print media, as content can quickly become outdated or buried in a sea of other digital content.
• Credibility concerns: Due to the ease of producing and distributing electronic media, there are concerns about the credibility of the information being presented.
• Audience fragmentation: With so many electronic media outlets available, it can be difficult for businesses to target their intended audience effectively.
• Distraction: Electronic media can be a distraction, as users may be tempted to switch between different websites, apps, and social media platforms instead of focusing on one piece of content. 

Similarities:

• Both provide a means of communicating information to a large audience.
• Both can be used for marketing and advertising purposes.
• Both offer various formats for presenting information, such as text, images, and videos.
• Both require the creation of content by writers, editors, and other content creators.
• Both can be accessed by individuals at their convenience.
• Both have the potential to impact public opinion and shape social discourse.
• Both can be used for entertainment and educational purposes.
• Both require the use of technology, whether it’s printing presses or digital devices.
• Both can be used to create and disseminate news and current events.
• Both can be monetized through subscriptions, advertising, or other revenue streams.

Difference between Print Media and Electronic Media :

Conclusion:

print media and electronic media have different characteristics and uses. While print media may be more expensive and less timely than electronic media, it can offer a more tactile experience and has a longer lifespan. Electronic media, on the other hand, can reach a larger audience and offers more interactivity and real-time updates. 

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Essay on Mass Media

Students are often asked to write an essay on Mass Media in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Mass Media

Introduction.

Mass media refers to various platforms that communicate and distribute information to a large number of people. These include television, radio, newspapers, and the internet.

Role of Mass Media

Mass media plays a crucial role in society. It educates, entertains, and informs people. It also influences public opinion and trends.

Types of Mass Media

There are traditional forms like print media (newspapers, magazines) and broadcast media (TV, radio). The internet is a modern form, including social media, blogs, and news websites.

In conclusion, mass media is a powerful tool that can shape society. It is vital to use it responsibly for the benefit of all.

250 Words Essay on Mass Media

Introduction to mass media.

Mass media refers to the diverse array of media technologies that reach a large audience via mass communication. It encompasses various forms of communication tools such as television, radio, newspapers, magazines, and digital platforms. The power of mass media lies in its ability to disseminate information, influence public opinion, and shape societal norms.

The Evolution of Mass Media

The journey of mass media began with print media, with the invention of the printing press in the 15th century. The advent of electronic media, such as radio and television, in the 20th century, revolutionized the way information was shared. In the digital age, the internet has further transformed mass media, allowing for instantaneous global communication and interactivity.

Impact of Mass Media on Society

Mass media plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and culture. It has the power to influence political discourse, societal norms, and individual behavior. However, it can also propagate misinformation, leading to public confusion and mistrust. Hence, the ethical use of mass media is crucial.

The Future of Mass Media

The future of mass media lies in its convergence with digital technology. With the emergence of artificial intelligence and machine learning, mass media is likely to become even more personalized and interactive. However, this also raises concerns about privacy and the potential manipulation of information.

In conclusion, mass media, as a powerful tool of communication, has a profound impact on society. Its evolution and future developments pose both opportunities and challenges that need to be addressed responsibly.

500 Words Essay on Mass Media

Mass media, an essential component of modern society, plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information. It includes various platforms such as newspapers, radio, television, and the internet, which collectively serve as a mirror reflecting societal norms, values, and transformations.

The Role of Mass Media

Mass media is not merely an information-dissemination tool; it is a potent force in shaping public opinion and culture. It serves as a platform for debate, influencing political discourse and social issues. It has the power to set the agenda for public discourse, highlighting certain issues while downplaying others, thereby influencing what the public perceives as significant.

Democratization of Information

The advent of the internet and digital platforms has democratized information access, transforming mass media’s role. Previously, media was a one-way communication channel, with the public as passive consumers. However, the internet has made the public active participants, enabling them to generate, share, and react to content. This shift has democratized media, giving voice to previously unheard sections of society.

Mass Media and Social Change

Mass media has the potential to drive social change by bringing social issues to the forefront. It can expose injustices, spark debates, and drive collective action. For instance, the #MeToo movement gained momentum through social media, leading to significant shifts in societal attitudes towards sexual harassment.

The Dark Side of Mass Media

The need for media literacy.

Given mass media’s influence, media literacy is crucial. It involves the ability to critically analyze media content, discerning between credible information and misinformation. Media literacy education can empower individuals, enabling them to make informed decisions and participate effectively in the digital age.

In conclusion, mass media is a double-edged sword with the power to shape society positively or negatively. As we navigate this digital age, it is crucial to harness its potential for societal good, while mitigating its negative impacts. This balancing act requires critical media literacy, stringent regulations, and active participation from all stakeholders. The future of mass media is not just about technological advancements, but also about the ethical and responsible use of these powerful platforms.

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Role of Media in Society Essay

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Introduction

Overview of the role of media in society, works cited.

In today’s society, the flow of information among the citizenry plays an important role towards the development of an informed society. To this effect, the media has been instrumental in ensuring that the population gets current news and information on different issues affecting various societies.

Arguably, without the media, the world would consist of an ignorant population devoid of any relevant information relating to issues affecting their environment. With this in mind, it could be argued that the media provides the backdrop against which we make sense of any new conditions and information that we encounter in a world that is increasingly becoming globalized.

Since its conception, the media has been hugely influential in the development of the society. The media can be used to drive public opinion, report on current news and advance some social values. The media is at best a complex genre which may be broken down into a large number of sub-genres such as news stories, opinion columns, advertisements, sports and horoscopes to name but a few.

As such, the role of the media in today’s society is important because it essentially helps individuals get access to valuable information, educate the people in the communities and is a useful, affordable and an economical tool for entertainment.

In today’s society, the social issue that has particularly struck individuals through the decades is that of the media. In this study, the various opinions held in regard to the media and how it operates shall be provided. Through the analysis of relevant literature, a brief yet informative discussion of the various benefits that have been enjoyed as a result of the media shall be presented. This shall be done by highlighting key areas where the media has been instrumental.

These areas include but are not limited to: provision of information, a source of education and knowledge, link between members of the global community and a source of entertainment. The differing opinions propagated by media critics shall also be presented. This shall at the end help us understand the roles that the media plays in society as well as the extent to which the media has been successful in performing its duties.

As such, it shall be a worthwhile endeavor to shed some light on the benefits as well as the costs that have risen due to the presence and effects of the media in our societies. This analysis shall help in the provision of a clearer understanding on how the media affects society.

The media is arguably one of the most powerful agents for change and the betterment of society. Its role as the society’s eyes; indeed a ‘watchdog’ constantly monitoring and critiquing the actions of those in authority for the betterment of society are some of the attributes that previously made the media seem as a positive influence to society.

The ability of media to so accurately reflect the mood of the society and advocate for people to fight against social injustices and vices portrays the media as a tool for promoting justice, equality and harmony among the masses.

In regards to this statement, the current states of affairs indicate that societies are ridden with selfishness and actions aimed at advancing individual goals. This can be derived from the argument raised by Michael Meyers who claims that today’s media does not educate the audience but train them (Kramer, Meyers and Rothstein 582).

This he attributes to the fact that the media outlets no longer providing credible information. In this regard, the audience does not buy the truth, but what prominent figures want them to believe. The author is trying to bring out the fact that media is biased.

The proposed biasness has its root in the anti-intellectual and anti-democratic media. In addition, the media’s advertisement of products and services is an act aimed at enabling the consumers to make informed choices. As Bernt explains, the skills and artistic nature used to present persuasive advertisements help consumers relate products to their lifestyle and preferences (193).

Texts and images represented in advertisement can signify a myriad of meanings to the viewer. All this is in an attempt by the creator of the advert to persuade the consumer to think, feel or act in a predetermined manner (Bernt 194). Advertisement is therefore more of an educative venture than a deliberate attempt to sway the consumer in any predetermined direction since in the end; the consumers are better informed of the variety of brands that are at their disposal.

Bernt suggests that the heavy emphasis of advertisements in media is due to the fact that advertisers are the dominant sources of revenue for most modern media (193). The influence that advertisements have on the people is colossal as can be inferred from the rise in sales for corporations that engage in large-scale advertisement.

Bernt further asserts that the persuasive nature of advertisements has had a great effect on American culture in regards to the relationship between working hard and purchasing power (193). Bernt asserts that advertisements have “replaced Puritanism or the Protestant work ethic as the driving force in American society that causes people to work hard in order to shop even harder (193).”

The various forms of entertainment availed e.g. Movies, sports, interactive programs and Music productions are very important means of relieving stress after a long day at work. In addition, they help alleviate boredom. As such, the sole agenda of such products is recreational and providing means for people to enjoy themselves and connect (Bellah et al 67).

For example, through satellite television providers like DSTV people all over the world are able to enjoy the entertainment genre that best suit their preferences. Examples include movies, sports, music and news. Truth be told, football clubs would never have gained such a strong and wide fan base were it not for the media.

In regards to change in journalism, Pavlik highlights on how journalism has been affected by the transformation of the new media (Fernback 163).

In his opinion, new media technologies have greatly affected the traditional perspective of journalism. This he explains by expounding on the new journalistic trends such as changes in the contents provided to the audience as news, changes in how journalists work, structural changes in news organizations and changes that have occurred in the correlations between media outlets, journalists and different audiences (Fernback 163).

These changes brought about by new media technologies have to a large extent led to the contextualization of journalism; a situation whereby journalism has become less objective and practical.

On the same note, Palvik (as cited by Fernback 163) further notes that these new trends perceive journalists as interpreters of current events who in their efforts “empower the audience and reconnect communities (Fernback 163).”

According to Palvik, the new transformations being experienced in media outlets can be attributed to the availability and emergence of online infrastructure, high degree of customization, instantaneity and interactivity that characterize new media. In his point of view, Palvik believes that such developments will at the end make journalism a better tool to promote democracy (Fernback 163).

Evidence of such developments can be derived from the emergence of the internet and the online architecture that supports this vast source of information. Through online encyclopedias such as Wikipedia and the various search engines, people are able to access information and learn about different issues that affect their lives.

In addition, students in all academic fields are able to do more research in their designated fields and as a result, they become more knowledgeable in these areas than they would have been while using the traditional means of acquiring knowledge. Similarly, the internet has also provided people with a global means of communicating and learning about each other through websites like “facebook” and “twitter”.

People from different countries globally are able to interact and socialize in the comfort of their homes without the inconveniencies caused by travelling as well as the enormous costs that would have otherwise been incurred. These facts prove Palvik’s assertion that new media is at the forefront in empowering the masses (by providing useful information) and connecting communities (interactive nature of the internet, radio and TV talk shows e. t. c.).

On the other hand, Preston (as cited by Fernback 163) contends that the transformations being experienced in media are as a result of political, social, economical and communication patterns rather than technological developments.

Preston asserts that the interrelation that exists between social and informational sciences accompanied by non-academic and industrial literatures can be used by media so as to develop an equitable society and ensure social order (Fernback 163). In his book reshaping communication , Preston uses the aforementioned aspects to develop a model that explores the social role of information and communication in societies today (Fernback 163).

In his opinion, Preston argues that our cultural, informational and social bearings are hinged not on technological advancements, but on the socioeconomic, political and communication trends that we adapt (Fernback 164). In this regard, it can arguably be stated that the role of the media in society is not determined by technological advancements, but by the socio-technical paradigm (Fernback 164).

The positive view of the media has greatly been challenged with time. No longer do the various media outlets stand out as the ‘last front were nobility and idealism still had a foothold.’ Instead, the media just like any other business has been influenced by competition and ratings. As such, it has been noted for a fact that media outlets do at times express their own biased opinions which may not always be ideal or noble at that.

For example, Gay Talese attests to the fact that the New York Times editor Gerald Boyd refused to print a story about an interracial wedding simply because it never emphasized on Black victimization (Kramer, Meyers and Rothstein 575). According to Gay Talese, any story that would soften the perception people had on such issues was disallowed and could not be printed (Kramer, Meyers and Rothstein 575).

In this case, the Media’s actions which were previously perceived as being selfless and socially motivated have been exposed to not always have been driven by benevolence. These actions are at times resounded with self interests and personal gains for the media houses and the corporations that sponsor them.

The previous view of the media’s ability to correctly reflect on the society’s mood has also been greatly questioned as the media does at time appear to affect the set the society’s mood as opposed to reflecting it through the use of propaganda. (Kramer, Meyers and Rothstein suggest that the one of the media’s greatest power is in its ability to subtly influence our opinion (575).

They further assert that in events that elicit a lot of public opinion, propaganda plays a great role and polarizes people along lines that they may not necessarily have taken had they not been “persuaded” to do so.

This subtle psychological nudges can be used to further the cause of big corporations in the form of advertisements or by politicians who want to sway public opinions for their own good. To this effect, the people’s previous trust in the media report has therefore been greatly clouded by this realization.

In terms of the unbiased reporting which had for a long time been viewed to be the hallmark of the popular media, it has been noted that some media reports are actually aimed at making the recipient of the information form a certain pre-determined opinion thus destroying any illusion of un-biasness (Kramer, Meyers and Rothstein 575).

Media outlets can therefore set out to further some social cause which they believe in. Using the cultivation theory, Burton propose that exposure to some kinds of media often cultivate certain attitudes and values (Steffen 455). As an example, Steffen sheds some light on how Arab media has in the recent past adopted the western form of journalism and media presentation (455).

In this regard, the author states that even journalists from countries such as Egypt and other Arabic countries which has stringent media policies accept western media values such as accuracy and balance (Steffen 455). As such, the reporter’s opinions and attitude will rub on the general population thus coloring their view of some events.

In addition, the aforementioned assertion that advertisement aired in different media outlets is aimed at making the consumer better informed has been changed by evidence which strongly suggests that advertisements are aimed at actively influencing the decision that the consumer makes or may make in future (Steffen 456).

What this means is that advertisement is no longer a primary tool for marketing, instead, it has been used to combat the aggressive competition. To this effect, only the consumers suffer because the advertisements no longer help them make informed decisions about the products but instead, the advertisements influence their judgments by giving half-truths.

An especially troubling fact that revealed through various research efforts is that uncontrolled media in some instances leads to desensitization of the population on issues such as violence.

Continuous exposure to media violence especially on the young and impressionable segment of the population can lead to catastrophic results as has been witnessed before in the various random shootouts that occur in our schools. Research shows that media violence encourages aggressive behavior and leads to pessimism in children (Burton 123; Steffen 456).

This information contradicts the aforementioned perception of the media as a guardian and propagator of social values since the compelling evidence presented by research showed that media also leads to breaking of social values and leads to a disruption of harmony through the violence it encourages.

On the same note, rampant advertisements through media outlets have in the recent past characterized modern media. These advertisements aim at influencing the consumer to maintain or develop some form of ideology (Bernt 194). This close relationship that media and advertising have developed raises concerns over the influences that the media may be willing to wield so as to achieve the advertising objectives.

A closer observation of the movies and other entertainment forms presented by the media revealed heavy advertisements therein. These rampant acts of branding were previously unknown to many and their effect though unconsciously administered is substantial.

The media’s promotion of social values is also at times only used as a cover to influence consumers by use of advertisement (Fernback 164). Due to these advertisements, naive recipients of the information presented are unwittingly influenced into buying the products that the particular advertisements promote.

This is at best a very irresponsible behavior by the media since most people are favorably disposed to agree with sentiments that are projected by the media. These misuses of social issues as a marketing tool have also changed the positive role that the media was supposed to deliver. This is mainly due to the fact that the media is being used as a tool for furthering the objectives of corporations at the cost of an unsuspecting population.

The role played by the media in today’s society cannot be understated. However, caution should be taken because as expressed in this study, not all media is healthy. Through this research, the knowledge that has been transferred herein should not make the public skeptical of the media but should help them become more skeptical about the issues being addressed through various media outlets.

This will invariably transform them from being passive, unquestioning and all-believing recipients, to active and questioning recipients of the information which is provided by the media. Nevertheless, a free and vibrant media is necessary for the good of the society. An unfettered media is the hallmark of a truly unbiased society. However, one should adopt a more questioning stance when dealing with any information provided by the media.

Bellah, Robert. ET AL.”Community, Commitment, and Individuality.” Literacies: Reading, Writing, Interpretation. New York: W.W. Norton, 2000. 65-74. Print.

Bernt, Joseph. P. “Ads, Fads, and Consumer Culture: Advertising’s Impact on American Character and Society.” Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly 78.1 (2001): 193-194. Research Library, ProQuest. Web.

Fernback, Jan. “Journalism and New Media / Reshaping Communications: Technology, Information and Social Change.” Journalism & Mass Communication Educator 57.2 (2002): 162-164. Research Library, ProQuest. Web.

Kramer Hilton, Michael Meyers and Edward Rothstein. “The media and our country’s agenda.” Partisan Review 69.4 (2002): 574-606. Research Library, ProQuest. Web.

Steffen, Brian. J. “Media and Society: Critical Perspectives.” Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly 83.2 (2006): 455-456. Research Library, ProQuest. Web.

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