Shape of meanings 4/5
How media shapes meaning
Key concepts to explore:
- Agenda-setting: what topics are prioritised or ignored
This concept highlights how media outlets and influential actors decide what issues receive attention and which are sidelined. It doesn’t tell people what to think, but rather what to think about.
Why are some stories on the front page and others buried inside?
- Ownership and control: who benefits from how the story is told?
Ownership and control refer to who owns or funds a media outlet, and how that influences what content is produced or prioritised. These interests can shape narratives, exclude dissenting voices, or promote certain agendas.
Who owns the media outlet? Do they have a political or business interest?