Ideology

 Part 1: Media Magazine reading

Media Magazine issue 52 has two good articles on Ideology. You need to read those articles (our Media Magazine archive is here) and complete a few short tasks linked to them. 

Page 34: The World Of Mockingjay: Ideology, Dystopia And Propaganda

1) Read the article and summarise it in one sentence.

The article explains how those in power use media as a tool to spread and maintain their ideologies.

2) What view of capitalist ideology is presented in the Hunger Games films?

The films highlight the extreme divide between the rich and the poor, where the wealthy live in luxury while the lower classes suffer under oppression—mirroring real-world economic inequality.

3) What do the Hunger Games films suggest about the power of the media to shape and influence ideological beliefs?

They show that media can be used to manipulate people and control dominant ideologies, but it can also be a tool for rebellion and resistance.

4) What is YOUR opinion on this topic? Do you think the media shapes our values and beliefs?

I think media has a huge influence on shaping our values, often reinforcing dominant ideas. However, with social media giving people more control over content, there are now more opportunities to challenge these ideologies.

Page 48: They Live - Understanding Ideology

1) What are the four accepted ideological beliefs in western societies highlighted by the article?

Buying things will make you feel fulfilled.

Marriage, family, and children bring happiness.

Money leads to happiness.

Work gives your life meaning.

2) What does Gramsci's theory of hegemony suggest about power and ideology in society?

Gramsci argues that the ruling class stays in power by making their ideas seem like common sense, so people accept them without questioning, reducing the need for force.

3) What does French theorist Louis Althusser suggest about ideology and consumerism?

He suggests that we are made to believe that happiness comes from buying things, which benefits the wealthy because it encourages endless consumerism.

4) Do YOU agree with the idea behind They Live - that we are unthinkingly controlled by the media which is run in the interests of the economic elite? These are the big questions of A Level Media!

Yes, I think the media constantly promotes consumerism and capitalist values in ways we don’t always notice, influencing how we think and behave.

Part 2: The role of the media in democracy

Read this Constitution Unit blog on the importance of media in democracy. This brings together our work on ownership, public service broadcasting, regulation and ideology. Answer the following questions:

1) Why is the media important in a democracy? 

A strong media keeps the public informed, holds those in power accountable, and helps people make informed decisions.

2) What are the hallmarks of a free and healthy media landscape?

Misinformation and political interference can threaten a free and fair media.

3) What risks are identified that threaten a healthy media environment? 

I think we need stricter rules on media ownership to prevent bias, more support for public service broadcasting, and better regulation to stop misinformation and political influence.

4) What is YOUR opinion on how the media can be safeguarded to protect democracy? You may want to think about ownership, regulation, technology or public service broadcasting here.

To protect democracy, media should stay fair and independent, with stricter rules against misinformation and political control. Public service broadcasting needs more support, and online platforms should be regulated without restricting free speech.