Collective identity and representing ourselves: blog tasks

Task 1: Media Magazine article

Read the Media Magazine article on collective identity: Self-image and the Media (MM41 - page 6). Our Media Magazine archive is here.

Complete the following tasks on your blog:

1) Read the article and summarise each section in one sentence, starting with the section 'Who are you?'

Who are you? – Our identity is shaped by both our personal experiences and the way media represents different groups.

The rise of the individual – Modern society values individualism, encouraging people to express their uniqueness.

From citizen to consumer – The media influences us by creating desires and then selling products to satisfy them.

Branding and lifestyle – Companies use branding to connect their products with certain lifestyles or personalities.

2) Do you agree with the view that modern media is all about 'style over substance'? What does this expression mean?

The phrase means that looks and branding are often more important than deeper meaning or quality. While I think substance still exists in journalism and documentaries, mainstream media, especially advertising and social media, often focus more on visuals and trends to grab attention quickly.

3) Explain Baudrillard's theory of 'media saturation' in one paragraph. You may need to research it online to find out more.

Jean Baudrillard believed that media has become so dominant that it shapes how we see reality. He introduced the idea of hyperreality, where media images and representations feel more real than actual experiences. This means we live in a world where we interact more with media versions of reality rather than reality itself.

4) Is your presence on social media an accurate reflection of who you are? Have you ever added or removed a picture from a social media site purely because of what it says about the type of person you are?

Social media shows parts of who I am, but it’s not a full or completely honest reflection. Like most people, I choose pictures and posts that make me look good or fit a certain image. I have definitely changed or removed photos before because of how they might make me look to others.

5) What is your opinion on 'data mining'? Are you happy for companies to sell you products based on your social media presence and online search terms? Is this an invasion of privacy?

I don’t like the idea of companies collecting and selling my personal data without my clear permission. While it’s helpful when ads are more relevant, it’s also concerning that companies know so much about us. There should be stricter rules on how our data is used.

Task 2: Media Magazine cartoon

Now read the cartoon in MM62 (p36) that summarises David Gauntlett’s theories of identity. Write five simple bullet points summarising what you have learned from the cartoon about Gauntlett's theories of identity. Our Media Magazine archive is here.

Task 3: Representation & Identity: Factsheet blog task

Finally, use our brilliant Media Factsheet archive on the M: drive Media Shared (M:\Resources\A Level\Media Factsheets) to find Media Factsheet #72 on Collective Identity. The Factsheet archive is available online here - you'll need your Greenford Google login to access. Read the whole of Factsheet and answer the following questions to complete our introductory work on collective identity:

1) What is collective identity? Write your own definition in as close to 50 words as possible.

Collective identity is when a group of people share a sense of belonging based on common interests, values, or experiences. It helps individuals understand who they are by connecting them to others, whether through culture, society, or shared communities.

2) How does James May's Top Toys offer a nostalgic representation of Britain?

The show looks at classic British toys and their history, reminding viewers of their childhoods and the role these toys played in shaping fun and imagination. It makes people feel proud of Britain’s influence on childhood and toy culture.

3) How has new technology changed collective identity?

The internet and social media have made it easier for people to connect with others who share their interests, no matter where they live. This means collective identity is no longer just about location or nationality—it’s about shared passions and online communities.

4) What phrase does David Gauntlett (2008) use to describe this new focus on identity? 

He calls it “making your own media,” meaning that people now create and share their own content to express who they are instead of just consuming traditional media.

5) How does the Shaun of the Dead Facebook group provide an example of Henry Jenkins' theory of interpretive communities online?

The group is a great example of an interpretive community because it brings together fans who enjoy the film and share inside jokes, theories, and discussions. It creates a space where people connect through their shared love of the movie and interpret it in their own way.