Overview
Marxist media theory
Quick Reference
A range of views in which the primary function of the mass media is regarded as the reproduction of the status quo (in contrast to liberal pluralism). In Marxist theory, the mass media form the arena in which various ideological battles are fought, but in which the class in control of capital has ultimate control (see also consciousness industry; media hegemony). Media professionals (including those managers who run the media institutions) consider themselves to be autonomous, but their views reflect those of a controlling elite which determines not just what views are broadcast, but also the perspective from which media debates are framed (see also agenda setting). Audiences may be able to negotiate and contest mass media frameworks (see also negotiated reading; oppositional reading), but they lack ready access to alternative meaning systems that would enable them to reject them entirely. See also dominance model; Frankfurt school; hegemonic reading; legitimation; manufacture of consent.
http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Documents/marxism/ Marxist media theory
