Download - Representation theories
Learning Objective
• To understand further theoretical representational terms and how to apply
these to specific media examples.
• (MEST2 Section B).
Task
• Write down what transformation in Reality TV means + one example.
• Write down what symbolic violence in Reality TV means + one example.
Types of RepresentationTypes of Representation1. Positive = imagery focusing on aspects of an individual / group
/ place that transmits good, decent, successful ideology.
2. Negative = the opposite of above; focusing on anti-social, corrupt, deviant behaviour. Focusing on all that is bad about the subject.
3. Progressive = imagery designed to help improve and promote a certain individual / group / place – help change public opinion (dominant culture) prejudices towards a section of society.
4. Problematic = imagery that isn’t clearly positive or negative – that has complex, multiple meanings; might be deemed racist, sexist, homophobic, etc.
5. Active = imagery that represents an indivdual / group as assertive, intelligent, in control of any given situation.
6. Passive = imagery that represents an individual / group as weak, simple-minded, where others are in control of their lives.
7. Tokenism = when a racial group appears to selected for representation for no other reason other than producers being able to claim they are being inclusive, ‘politically-correct’.
Positive Representation
Active Active femalefemale representation representation
Types of Representation
• Create a Powerpoint with a slide for each of these (passive, active etc.) including a
media example.
• Write the different types of representation definitions in your own words.
• Email to: [email protected]