After watching Black in Latin America, I have realized how great of an impact the media has on society. The mass media influence has continued to grow as our technological resources have improved and as our self-image has become more important.
Due to the advanced technology, Latin American civilians have begun to focus on the celebrities in the media way more than they have before. Trends and customs have evolved into ones that come directly out of the media. As Latin American focus on the media has increased, the celebrities have influenced the way Latin Americans think they should be. The change in self-image in Latin America comes directly from the media and affects the appearance of a person and their nature.
A true "Latin American" in the media, was rarely black and their hair was always straight. Civilians would then change their appearance to mask their true colors and looks from the rest of society because they are afraid of how they will be viewed. Mothers even change the looks of their kids to make sure they are no perceived in a different/ bad way. Children are usually open minded individuals who do not care about colors and backgrounds but because of the media's influence, parents have become so media driven that their children have been taught to view other's based on looks too.
Good post Jeannie!
ReplyDeleteThe media's influence on popular attitudes is a powerful one that isn't easily resisted. However, media executives like to say that their content simply reflects attitudes that already exist. Even if we concede that the media's power is substantial, we have to admit that its impact isn't always negative. Just like peer pressure, messages in the popular media can also promote tolerance.