Reed's G Band Media Log

Absolute Control

Among multiple purposes of the New Media, one is ,of course, the creation and maintenance of stereotypes among humans. It is interesting to note how efficient New Media is in achieving its goal. New Media tends to preserve certain situation in the best way that suits it, for the sake of appearances. It is apparent that New Media and fashion go hand in hand. Together, they are pretty powerful. As far as stereotypes are concerned, there are few common and recognizable types of stereotypes, such as racial, social, sexual, national etc.

The word stereotype functions as a metaphor to state a certain set of beliefs and ideas, as well as qualities, that are usually illogical, and difficult to change. Stereotype is like a rule that has specific characteristics. Stereotypical ideology is difficult to change because it is imbedded deeply into people's minds, and could be passed from generation to generation. The role of the New Media is to preserve or change those beliefs, and since it is so widely spread, it is quite successful. The New Media plays a major role in subscribing people to a certain category. This is somehow useful in giving a quick judgment about the people. However, there can be negative stereotypes that are unjustifiably given to a particular people. As a result, prejudice, racism, sexism, and nationalism could be born. In order for that not to happen, the New Media tries to make humans somehow equal--creating one big stereotype. This is done through news, newspapers, TV shows, music etc.

Therefore, the New Media is overwhelming. It has its advantages and disadvantages. It is very difficult for one in this modern era to escape its grasp. Whatever that will be the most profitable for the society, there would be no problem to be advertised or popularized. And people respond to that--just go by the flow--it is cool, and inevitable.