Category: Entertainment & Media 1830

The invention of the Internet and the social media websites such as Facebook and Instagram have changed the way people communicate, with the traditional means of communication being replaced by the technology-based platforms. The young generation has specifically embraced social media as a communication tool. They tend to shun the conventional communication channels. A recent survey showed that approximately 80% of the youths in the United States have Internet access while about 70% of them use the Internet at least once daily (Cunningham & Silver, 2013). Besides, the study revealed that most of the adults with Internet access were also members of the social network sites, which they used to interact and/or make new friends. In 2006, out of the total adult Internet users (18-35 years), 17% of them were those who were using any social networking site. This percentage grew to 85% on 2011. However, although Facebook Company earns a huge sum of money from the content that users post, it does not share the profits with the creators of the materials. On the other hand, users use the platform to interact with friends or even earn themselves money, hence partly invalidating the claim concerning exploitation.

Arguments for Exploitation

According to Karl Marx, exploitation refers to a situation whereby an employer fails to compensate an employee for his or her services (Cunningham & Silver, 2013). In the case of Facebook, the owners of the website may be said to be exploitive since they do not pay their content producers. In essence, Facebook users are responsible for creating and sharing their materials. In most cases, the content created by the users benefit Facebook since it adds value to the site. In the recent past, Facebook has recorded an increase in the number of its users, hence making it suitable for advertising. More and more companies are using it to advertise their products, a situation, which earns Facebook a huge amount of cash. However, as much as the company fully relies on the content created by users to make money, such people are not paid for their contribution.

Another argument that is used to support the idea that Facebook is exploitive is that it uses personal information given by users for personal gain. Facebook requires all customers to give their personal information when subscribing to be members. Such information includes a persons age, gender, marital status, and religious affiliations (Cunningham & Silver, 2013). Based on such information, the company is able to divide people based on their demographics to help businesses in targeting the right client. For example, the company has been accused of using information regarding users marital status to help marketers in the fashion industry to promote their products online. By helping businesses to identify their target customers, the company earns money in exchange. In the recent past, the companys income has grown tremendously. However, it has been reluctant to give back part of its earnings to the users.

Arguments against Exploitation

The social media has changed the face of the contemporary business in many ways. One of the impacts revolves around interaction with customers. Many people today tend to make reviews after purchasing a certain product or service. Contrary to the past where such customers would communicate their experience through a word of mouth, reaching only a few customers, nowadays, the communication is in the form of assessments. Facebook has specifically been an important platform for such communication. It is alleged that an average Facebook user has about 350 social friends. Hence, a review will instantly reach a huge population (Tyler, 2012). A positive review will prompt readers to test the product and equally share their experiences.

On the other hand, a negative review will drive away prospective customers. The other impact that the social media has on customer relations is that it helps to create loyalty among customers. Some businesses today have created a group of loyal customers in the social media who help to market their products cost-free. This strategy has the effect of reducing the overall operation costs since the business may not incur high expenses for placing ads with other mediums such as the highly expensive print media. Lastly, social media has influenced the entire business transactions between the seller and the buyer. In most cases, buyers tend to communicate about the product through social media. Buyers may demand information about a product. They expect a response within the shortest time possible. Therefore, as much as the Facebook owners do not directly pay content creators, they benefit greatly from the media, hence disputing the view that Facebook exploits its users.

Tyler (2012) argues that the social networks are a good tool for knowledge management among firms. Knowledge management encompasses the collection, processing, storage, and the conversion of data into useful information that can be deployed to inform the decisions of a firm. Knowledge management (KM) has become an important tool of management in the contemporary business environment, owing to the stiff competition that characterizes the market. Initially, the concepts of KM were not popular in the business world. However, in the past few decades, they have gained momentum since each business seeks to outsmart the other in the specific industry. Firms are today increasingly using social media to improve their products and services based on the customers reviews (Tyler, 2012). In this age of increased use of the social media, customers tend to make reviews about their experience after making a purchase. The reviews often include the positives and negatives. Firms are also encouraging customers to air their concerns about a product to gain insight of their extent of satisfaction. Through such reviews, companies are able to seal the gap in customer satisfaction through innovatively integrating customers reviews when designing or improving a product. Therefore, the argument about user exploitation is not valid.

Conclusion

Facebook is one of the social media platforms that earn a lot of money from advertising. The company has a large following from different parts across the world, hence making it suitable for advertising. The company has been accused of using its large following and the content created by users to make money, which it does not share with the creators. However, while the users of Facebook may claim they are being exploited, the allegation may not be valid since the company also allows users to interact freely without charging them. They can create and post anything through the platform. This situation gives users the freedom of expression. The content may also be designed in a way that earns the users money.

References

Cunningham, S., & Silver, J. (2013). Screen distribution and the new King Kongs of the online world. Berlin, Germany: Springer.

Tyler, A. (2012). Welsh Libraries and Social Media: A survey. Ariadne. Web.

Introduction

The media has significantly influenced the lives of the British people. On the average, Britons spend over 5 hours each day on media services such as the internet, television, and/or the mobile phone. The European Union was established in 1973 through the interventions of Edward Heath who was a prime minister at that time. The British press, which began its operations in the early 1600s, pioneered the development of broadcasting and other forms of the communication in the 1900s.

Media interventions have significantly transformed the ways of life of the Britons. This report provides an overview of the correlation of the British society with the media by examining the Benefits of the European Union to Britain, the influence of social class ideas on the British peoples sense of identity, and change of family concepts in the United Kingdom since the 1960s.

Benefits of the European Union (EU) Membership to Britain

According to Burton (2005), Britain has significantly benefited from the European Union in a number of ways that encompass social, economic, and political dimensions. The most significant benefit that has been realised in the economic dimension is the EUs promotion of its enormous market through the media. Socially, people are able to travel across the borders of the member nations without any strict restrictions.

The British government uses the media to promote social democracy. This strategy has been used profoundly to sway the opinions of both the Britons and foreign citizens (Burton 2005). The EU also operates under a common set of business rules that govern the member nations. Therefore, citizens of the member countries are able to run their businesses without obstruction.

Countries need foreign direct investments to boost their economic performances. Britain is one of the major economies that operate within the EU block. The media has been used widely as a propaganda tool to promote the popularity of the British economy. For this reason, it has attracted many international firms that are in search of openings in the European Union market. In turn, these companies create employment opportunities for the citizens.

In addition, they promote the maintenance of a healthy environment through corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs (Dencik 2012). The introduction of the EU driving licence has enabled Britons to travel throughout the EU region by the use of their cars for both business and adventurous purposes. Any person who lives within the region can work or live in the country of his choice. This state of affairs has largely increased social integration amongst the citizens of the member states.

The extent to which Social Class Ideas have influenced the British Peoples Sense of Identity

Since the beginning of civilisation, the society has always stratified itself into social classes that comprise people of different statuses because of factors such as power and/or wealth. This state of events significantly influenced the British media, which led to further division of the British society.

For instance, social classes exist amongst Britons and citizens of other countries who live in the country (Oakland 2006). There is a sense of in-group and out-group relations whereby the media enhances the self-image of the British society in an attempt to differentiate them from the other groups.

The tenets of the social identity theory provide a clear understanding of the reasons behind the identity of the British community. In this context, the role of the media is to coax the government to seek weaknesses that lead to discrimination of the immigrants. The theory holds that groups have a tendency of enhancing themselves by discriminating other social groups (Oakland 2006). This situation leads to division of people based on social lines.

Extreme social alienation results in racialism. Social classes that are based on wealth include the upper, the middle, or the lower class. The middle class is subdivided into three divisions, which include the upper middle, the middle, and the lower middle depending on factors such as earnings and closeness to the upper or the lower social classes. Although there is some mobility between the classes, people who fall within the same social class are identified by their average earnings (Cohen 2014).

Change of Family Concepts in the UK Since 1960s

For the last few decades, life has taken a fast lane that has greatly changed the lifestyles of people and the concepts of the family unit (Tomascikova 2010). Some pillars of the family structure that were highly regarded in the past are quickly disappearing. However, this tendency has been linked to the interventions of the media on issues that pertain to marriage. The use of the media to characterise various gender roles has significantly affected the functioning of marriages.

This situation has led to a shift in family concepts. Various researchers attest that constant change of the family concepts in the United Kingdom poses a likelihood of more divorces in the near future (Cohen 2014). Media discussions on matters that pertain to marriage relationships have influenced the rational thinking of many individuals.

This situation has led to simplification of divorce processes. However, in the past, the process of divorce was lengthy and difficult. As a result, many couples opted to solve the family issues and remain in marriage.

The government of Britain used the media largely to foster education in the UK. Tomascikova (2010) reveals that career pursuit is a crucial factor that has led to disruption of the family system. Some individuals regard career objectives as their top priority. As a result, they leave little time for their families. The media constantly reminds the citizens about the need to continue climbing the ladder of personal development.

This situation has significantly increased dependency on house care services to take charge of children. Interestingly, children have adopted this culture and they do not see the importance of spending time with their parents. Postponement of marriage age is a habit that has gradually developed among the people of the UK. Many Britons decide to stay unmarried for the rest of their lives in a bid to seek freedom (Burton 2005).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the British fraternity has radically transformed to a mass media society. The strong correlation of the media and the Britain society has led to social, economic, and political stratification. For instance, media campaigns have significantly transformed the Britain economy through creation of propaganda to attract foreign investment in the UK.

However, this correlation has also affected the social statuses of diverse societies in the United Kingdom. This situation has largely contributed to discrimination, formation of social classes, and change of the usual family concepts. With the current position of the media in Britain, it is difficult to change the role of the media in shaping the society and vice versa.

References

Burton, G 2005, Media and Society: Critical Perspectives, Open University Press, Berkshire.

Cohen, N 2014, Our suicidal media: Civil war within the British press threatens a free society, Spectator, vol. 326 no. 9711, pp.15.

Dencik, L 2012, Media and Global Civil Society, Palgrave Macmillan, Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire.

Oakland, J 2006, British Civilization, Routledge, New York.

Tomascikova, S 2010, British Situation Comedy and the Consciousness of New Class Differences in Slovakia, European Journal of English Studies, vol. 14 no. 3, pp. 207-20.

The documentary Scared Straight! examines many forms of crimes perpetrated by both adult and child offenders. Adult criminals conduct a variety of crimes, including drug-related felonies, robbery, burglary, and assault. The video focuses on how some of these adult offenders become career criminals, committing crimes as children and finally getting institutionalized in the prison system. Juvenile criminals, on the other hand, commit offenses such as drug possession, theft, and violence, among others. The documentary shows how these juvenile criminals are guided through several programs aimed at keeping them from committing crimes in the future. Boot camps, prison tours, and interventions by long-term offenders are among the activities available. In summary, the crimes described in the documentary vary from minor infractions to major ones, such as robbery and assault. The documentary depicts how the penitentiary system handles these offenders in order to rehabilitate them and keep them from reoffending in the future.

Program Profiles in Everyday Jail Activities

The documentary Scared Straight! presents many program profiles that occur in daily correctional activities. These programs are intended to inculcate convicts discipline, respect, and responsibility. Among the program profiles featured in the documentary are:

1. Boot camps are meant to give offenders a disciplined atmosphere in which they may acquire discipline and physical fitness. Inmates are taught collaboration, leadership, and self-discipline in boot camps.
2. Anger management programs: These sessions are aimed at assisting convicts in better managing their anger and emotions. The programs educate convicts on how to recognize rage triggers, regulate their feelings, and communicate successfully.
3. Vocational training: Vocational training programs are aimed at providing convicts with skills that will help them find work once they are released. Among these curricula are carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.
4. Drug rehabilitation programs: These programs try to assist convicts in overcoming their drug and alcohol addictions. The programs provide convicts battling with addiction treatment, rehabilitation, and support.

Special Cells in Prison

The documentary Scared Straight! also exposes unique jail cells meant to punish convicts who breach the rules. These individual cells include:

1. Solitary imprisonment: Solitary confinement is used for inmates who violate the regulations. Solitary confinement is a type of punishment in which an offender is kept in a tiny cell for 23 hours a day with little human interaction.
2. The hole: Another type of punishment in which an offender is imprisoned in a cell with no bed or clothes. The inmates cell is dark and wet, and they are provided little food and drink.
3. The restraint chair is used to confine convicts who are a danger to themselves or others. Inmates movements are restricted since they are fastened to the chair.

Living Conditions of Prisoners in the Documentary

The documentary Scared Straight! examines the living circumstances of inmates in the penitentiary system. The jail is shown in the documentary as a place with awful living circumstances, with convicts having to live in small cells and sleep on uncomfortable mattresses. Inmates have restricted access to basic necessities, including clean water, food, and medical treatment. The video also emphasizes the emotional violence that detainees endure, including verbal insults and humiliation at the hands of other inmates and prison personnel. Emotional abuse may have long-term impacts on convicts mental health, making it difficult for them to reintegrate into society once they are released. The portrayal of violence and abuse in the prison system emphasizes the need for reforms and monitoring to keep inmates safe. It also highlights the significance of treating the underlying reasons for criminal behavior, such as poverty, trauma, and addiction, all of which can lead to violence and aggressiveness.

Aside from the awful living conditions and brutality, the video illustrates how detainees are deprived of fundamental rights like privacy and freedom of movement. Inmates must follow tight rules and regulations, and any breach can result in punishment or time in solitary confinement. Lastly, the video paints a grim image of life in prison, emphasizing the need for reform and rehabilitation programs to assist offenders in reintegrating into society.

Significant Aspects of Corrections Conveyed through Scared Straight!

The documentary Scared Straight! highlights various essential aspects of corrections, including:

1. Rehabilitation: The documentary emphasizes the need for rehabilitation programs that assist offenders in overcoming addiction, gaining life skills, and finding work once they are released. Rehabilitation programs are critical in reducing recidivism and reintegrating convicts into society.
2. Deterrence: The documentary demonstrates how programs such as boot camps and prison visits may be utilized to keep juvenile offenders out of the criminal justice system. These programs expose juvenile offenders to the harsh reality of jail life, discouraging them from committing more offenses.
3. Punishment: The documentary portrays the punishment meted out to convicts who violate the regulations. Punishment is an essential component of corrections because it serves to preserve order in the prison system and deters offenders from committing subsequent offenses.
4. Violence and abuse: The documentary emphasizes the frequency of violence and abuse in the prison system perpetrated by both convicts and prison personnel. This highlights the importance of reforms and monitoring in order to safeguard convicts from abuse and guarantee their fundamental human rights are upheld.

The media plays an essential role in the information space in modern American society. Traditional news and social media have a vast audience that informs about current events and trends. However, there has been a growing interest in how accurate and reliable the information provided by the media is. Traditional news media and social media also differ in their responsibility to the public. This essay will examine the role of conventional news media and social media in modern American society and discuss the issue of the responsibility they bear.

Traditional news media such as newspapers, television, and radio have a significant weight in conveying information to the public. They are primary news sources and often serve as a guide for other media. Therefore, the responsibility of traditional news media to provide accurate information is rather high (Lutrell & Wallace, 2021). These media outlets must ensure that their materials are correct and do not contradict ethical journalistic standards. Their task is not only to deliver news to viewers and readers but also to present information in a format that allows each individual to draw conclusions and form their own opinions.

On the other hand, social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram play an increasingly important role in disseminating information in modern society. They allow people to exchange real-time news, opinions, and ideas. Unlike traditional news media, social media is not a primary news source but rather a platform for sharing it (Lutrell & Wallace, 2021). However, even though social media platforms are not responsible for the accuracy and factual reliability of the information shared by their users, they influence the formation of public opinion to some extent. Therefore, social media should ensure that their platforms are not used to spread false information, provocative materials, or hate speech.

The responsibility of social media for the content shared by their users is a debatable issue. On the one hand, social networks cannot control all the information that their users publish, as it contradicts the principles of freedom of speech and the right to express opinions freely. On the other hand, social media platforms are responsible for the content published on their site (Lutrell & Wallace, 2021). They must combat the spread of false information, disinformation, provocations, and hateful rhetoric that can harm society and damage its members.

An example of how traditional news media is responsible for information accuracy and solid reliability can be seen in their work during the 2020 presidential elections. At a time when there was a massive disinformation campaign and numerous false messages on social media, traditional news media worked hard to fact-check and provide accurate information to their viewers and readers.

An example of how social media is responsible for the content shared by its users is the fight against fake news during the COVID-19 pandemic. Companies such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube actively fought against the spread of false information. They provided their users with accurate data on the pandemic to reduce panic and anxiety levels.

In conclusion, in modern American society, traditional news media and social media play an essential role in the information space. Traditional news media is responsible for providing accurate and reliable information to the public. At the same time, social media platforms have different levels of responsibility for the content their users publish. However, recently, the issue of whether social media platforms should be responsible for the content their users post has become more relevant. Overall, the role of media in modern society remains essential. Despite their problems and challenges, they will continue to play a vital role in the information space.

Reference

Lutrell, R., & Wallace, A. (2021). Social media and society: An introduction to the mass media landscape. Rowman & Littlefield Publishing.

Introduction

Climate change awareness has been quite high for a significant period. The effects of climate change, particularly, global warming, have been examined in media thoroughly, with most people having become aware of the drastic effects of ice caps melting. However, due to the lack of grasp on the full extent of effects that global warming has on nature, most people overlook the issue. Haulout, a recent documentary, sheds light on the issue, detailing the extent of the problem. Although the documentary lacks coherent criticism of the current attitudes regarding climate change and leans heavily toward the emotional component of its message, it conveys the core idea.

Summary

The problem of climate change and the associated environmental crisis was made aware of quite a while ago, yet it has remained an undeniably distant concern for most people, with its effects being not easy to observe in the urban setting. Haulout corrects the specified oversight in communicating the dangers of climate change. Directed and written by Evgenia Arbugaeva and Maxim Arbugaev, and released in 2023, the documentary addresses the threats to the walrus population caused by ice caps melting (Arbugaeva & Arbugaev, 2023).

Critique

The validity of Haulout can be described as debatable due to the presence of several noticeable flaws. Among the core disadvantages of the documentary, one should mention the abundance of content that appeals to the viewers emotions and the lack of actual criticism or an overview of the available solutions. For instance, the scene in which the sight of dying walruses makes Maxim shed a single tear represents a clichéd concept that has been overused to the point where it fails to render any sincerity, as Sarkany and Sarkany (2023) assert. As a result, the described scene comes across as manipulative as opposed to conveying a genuine emotion and introducing the audience to a specific argument.

The lack of variety in the arguments that the documentary introduces is another evident problem that reduces its value as an environmental statement. The described effect can be partially attributed to the lack of narration provided in the film. While most documentaries typically suffer from the opposite phenomenon, with the abundance of information narrated over the visuals and overshadowing them, the lack of voiceover in Haulout leaves the viewers to their imagination. In a film that featured a plethora of highly varied scenes and environments, the lack of narration would not be a problem (Arbugaeva & Arbugaev, 2023). However, Haulout lacks the visual diversity that would compensate for the absence of robust commentaries, which causes the movie to convey a single message stretched to 25 minutes. As a result, the movie appears to be shallow in its message. Consequently, what could have been the dramatic scenes of walruses suffering while having to survive on a tiny strip of land becomes a tiresome and unnecessary long propagation stretched to nearly half an hour.

However, to its credit, the documentary has several obvious advantages that elevate it over other films made on the subject matter. The cinematography is truly stunning, with the shots and the quality of filming allowing viewers to be transported into the Siberian Arctic environment. Similarly, the use of the mise-en-scene is especially powerful at the beginning, where herds of walruses start breaking into the researchers house (Arbugaeva & Arbugaev, 2023). Reminding of zombie apocalypse scenes, the specified part of the documentary creates a surreal image of impending doom that renders the catastrophic nature of the current state of affairs and evokes an immediate emotional response in the viewer.

Analysis

Based on the effects that the directors choices, one could argue that the documentary does not quite achieve its purpose. Arbugaeva and Arbugaev (2023) seek to prompt a change in peoples attitudes toward the issue of climate change and, specifically, the effects that it has on Arctic animals, particularly, the population of walruses. However, while leaving a short-lived effect on the viewer, mostly due to the presence of the content evoking an immediate emotion, the film lacks a coherent argument that has a strong staying power. Though the movie clearly states the problem of walruses and, possibly, other arctic animals, being endangered due to climate change, it does not communicate anything new; neither does it represent its statement in a new and refreshing way. While the scene with walruses breaking into the house does convey a sense of shock content, evoking the imagery of zombie apocalypse movies, it still does not have a strong staying power (Arbugaeva & Arbugaev, 2023). Therefore, supposing that the directors goal was to encourage long-lasting discussions on the subject matter, it has not been achieved.

Nonetheless, the lack of consistency and coherence in the argument put forward by Arbugaeva and Arbugaev (2023) does not mean that there is no substance in the film or that its message is wrong. I agree with the documentary, particularly, the fact that climate change has caused dire consequences for the environment and a range of species, particularly, the Arctic endemics (Arbugaeva & Arbugaev, 2023). I also agree that it is truly heartbreaking to see these gorgeous animals in such a drastic and deplorable state and watch them dying without the ability to help. The sense of helplessness is what the movie renders particularly effectively, leaving a rather painful aftertaste. The scene with the walrus cub being injured was especially painful to watch. Therefore, I quite agree that the problem of climate change is huge and that it must be tackled by making a major change.

Evaluation

The video introduces a rather limited range of ideas, which makes it quite easy to establish the core theme, namely, one of the effects of climate change on arctic species. Moreover, to the directors credit, the issue that the documentary raises does bear major importance for the present-day world. The problem of walruses becoming an endangered species and being drastically affected by the melting ice caps has been growing out of proportion lately due to the aggravated environmental conditions (Arbugaeva & Arbugaev, 2023). Recent studies mention the decline in the available land for walruses to use during the mating season, connecting the observed outcomes to the phenomenon of land fragmentation: The later sea-ice freeze-up and earlier melting periods, coupled with first-year ice, will lead to even earlier fragmentation, creating icescapes with low SIC, and ice-floe dynamics (Himmelberger et al., 2022, para. 27).

The specified phenomenon leads to the outcomes demonstrated in the documentary, namely, the rapidly decreasing space for walruses and the resulting risks of their injury and death en masse. Thus, there is an evident problem of climate change affecting the population of walruses, among a multitude of other Arctic species, which warrants further change in the approach to climate change management.

Furthermore, though the film neither addresses nor mentions the cause of the problem and the solutions that have already been implemented, yielding almost no result, it encourages further exploration. Exploring climate change and the melting of ice caps will illustrate that the issue is rooted primarily in the current agricultural practices, deforestation, and CO2 emissions produced by vehicles (Amjad et al., 2019). Therefore, while individual contributions to the problem must be recognized, organizations causing deforestation and depletion of resources must also be held accountable, as Carodenuto and Buluran (2021) establish. The specified issue also needs to be linked to the increasing consumerism rates, which tether the issue back to individual responsibility (Amjad et al., 2019). Thus, change must start at a community level with the transition toward more sustainable choices, which, in turn, will encourage companies to abandon their current harmful practices.

Conclusion

Though Haulout fails at articulating specific criticisms regarding the problem that it tackles, it succeeds at communicating the core idea of the harms that climate change causes, which is achieved by the integration of a clear appeal to emotion. Nonetheless, the approach that the documentary undertakes in its effort to convince the audience to address the issue of climate change and the dire consequences that it has on nature can be interpreted as manipulative by some viewers. The over-reliance on the call for empathy and the use of visuals that seek to evoke immediate sympathy reduces the critical value of the documentary, while also diluting the call to action that it seeks to promote. As a result, the documentary leaves little impact, causing viewers to feel emotional for a short period yet failing to encourage long-term discussions with the general public.

References

Arbugaeva, E., & Arbugaev, M. (Directors). (2023). Haulout [Film]. Albireo Films.

Amjad, D., Kausar, S., Waqar, R., & Sarwar, F. (2019). Land cover change analysis and impacts of deforestation on the climate of District Mansehra, Pakistan. Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences, 14(6), 103-113. Web.

Carodenuto, S., & Buluran, M. (2021). The effect of supply chain position on zero-deforestation commitments: evidence from the cocoa industry. Journal of Environmental Policy & Planning, 23(6), 716-731. Web.

Himmelberger, A., Frey, K. E., & Sangermano, F. (2022). Applying landscape fragmentation analysis to icescape environments: Potential impacts for the Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergence). Polar Research, 41. Web.

Sarkany, L., & Sarkany, E. (2023). When there is no script, all that is left is instinct, love, and Thanksgiving! Canadian Journal of Theology, Mental Health and Disability, 3(1), 92-96. Web.

There is no use denying the fact that nowadays mass media could be taken as one of the most powerful remedies that has a great influence on people. Coherent society could easily be called the era of digital technologies and various means of media as these phenomena have a great role in the modern world. Due to the blistering development of various means of communication, which became possible due to a great number of scientific discoveries, people obtained the unlimited access to information. They became able to get to know about the events that happen somewhere in another country to a person who was unknown for them.

However, having obtained this possibility, people find themselves dependent on various means of media as mainly due to their work society gets to know about some facts or events. Moreover, the influence of the mass media has been increasing because of the great role of information in the modern world and the way in which it is presented. The thing is that nowadays people have mediated access to various data as it is influenced by the point of view of sources that present it. With this in mind, it is possible to state the fact that in coherent society media is the most powerful remedy that influences the mentality of millions of people. With this in mind, it is possible to analyze some paper devoted to the given issue in order to obtain the main ideas or perspectives on the functioning of this instrument.

Thus, the article Encoding/Decoding by Stuart Hall is chosen as the background for the discussion. The given paper was written in 1973. However, some concepts and ideas presented in it still have not lost their topicality. It should be said that the author addresses the issue that was very topical at that period of time. The second half of the 20h century could be characterized by the blistering development of various means of media.

That is why, it is quite obvious that the level of interest towards them increased. Trying to investigate new and fast developing issue, a great number of various researchers devoted their works to the sphere of mass media and its main concepts. Though, Stuart Hall was influenced by the main tendencies peculiar to the society and wanted to suggest his own vision of some models peculiar to the sphere of mass media. Additionally, it should be said that the given article is the part of an edited book that is also devoted to this very issue. This fact could be taken as a good evidence of a great interest which existed towards the issue of mass media and its concepts.

Thus, analyzing the main ideas presented in the above mentioned article, it is possible to say that the author revolves around some models that tend to describe the process of communication in terms of the functioning of mass media (Hall 129). Hall underlines the fact that the traditional model has been criticized for linearity and inability to take into account all factors that influence the process of communication (129). Moreover, the author also suggests another approach that exists in science and is also used to describe the main processes that occur in the sphere of mass communication.

This approach has several advantages that could be taken as the main factor for its usage in practice. However, Hall tends to show that all these approaches are not ideal as nowadays the sphere to which they belong becomes more and more complicated. The author also wants to outline the fact that the main object of these practices is various meanings and messages that are organized in the form of sign-vehicles (Hall 130). Cogitating about the importance of this object, Hall also underlines the fact that it is created due to the interaction of various chains of codes and within the rules of a certain language for people to able to understand it (130).

Additionally, the author also suggests the idea that the current television communicative process is the program which is comprised of several issues (Hall 131). Emphasizing the fact that one of the main aims of mass media is the establishment of clear and efficient process of communication, the author says that all components of this program becomes extremely vital. Moreover, Hall tends to prove the idea that production of the program, that will result in the creation of the process of communication, is organized around the construction of a certain message that should be delivered to the audience with the help of various means of mass media (131).

This mediated contact is very important for the functioning of the whole sphere and, that is why, great attention is devoted to the structure of the whole program. That is why such aspects as routines of production, technical skills, professional ideologies and assumptions about the audience are taken into account and analyzed (Hall 130). Only basing on the ideas accepted due to the analysis of all these issues, the program that describes the would-be process of communication could be approved and used by various means of media.

Nevertheless, the author also suggests the idea that the broadcasting structures should contain encoded messages in the form of meaningful discourse in order to be realized and used in practice (Hall 134). The author tends to show the fact that strict and distinctive rules of language are also very important for the sphere of communication and, that is why, all products and programs should be organized in accordance with the main peculiarities of the language of the audience. Being quite obvious, this statement, however, is emphasized by the author in order to show the impact which the language has on the whole sphere of mediated communication and mass media (Hall 139).

Besides, the author also states the fact that before any message, conveyed with the help of various means of media, has the effect on the audience, it should be appropriated as a meaningful discourse in and be meaningfully decoded in order to be clear and understandable for the audience. Thus, it becomes obvious that the author wants to underline the fact that the efficiency of the message and mass media depends on the level of interaction and mutual understanding between the main organizers of the process and people who should receive this very message.

Besides, it should also be said that Hall not only points out his ideas, however, he tries to provide a clear evidence for all his ideas in order to make the whole paper credible. First of all, he provides a diagram that aims at showing the way in which the program as a meaningful discourse is organized and that distinguishes the main components of this phenomenon. Moreover, the author performs the analysis of various levels of the process of communication and meaningful discourse.

Outlining two main types of the discourse, which are visual and aural, the author states that the television sign could be taken as the combination of these very types of discourses (Hall 139). That is why, performing their analysis, Hall tries to show the credibility of his ideas and necessity of deep investigation of some main aspects of language in order to understand the main peculiarities of organizing the process of communication with the help of mass media.

Thus, it is possible to say that the ideas outlined by the author could be taken as quite logical and credible. The thing is that the author manages to combine concepts from various spheres of science in order to analyze the issue of communication in mass media and show the main tendencies of its development. Moreover, the evidence, used by the author to prove his assumptions, could also be taken as clear and credible. That is why, resting on these facts, it is possible to agree with the authors position and add the fact that the development of concepts that describe the process of communication has not stopped and there are many concepts nowadays that suggest a new vision of the issue.

In conclusion, it should be said that the authors augments about the issue of communication and the nature of its models seem to be quite logical. Supported by the clear evidence, they make a reader agree with the authors assumptions and accept his vision of the main peculiarities of communication and meaningful discourse.

Sources Cited

Hall, Stuart. Encoding/decoding. Centre for Contemporary Cultural Studies. Ed. Culture, Media, Language: Working Papers in Cultural Studies. London: Hutchinson 1980. 128-138. Print.

Introduction

About this research project, I would be interested in examining differences in international tourism between France and England. Specifically, this report highlights variations in the number of tourists in 5 years, i.e., 2009-2013. The secondary data that are used in calculations and conclusions were obtained via the following link.

It is pertinent to note that this paper has the following sections.

Section one  the processing of data

Various measures that are founded on statistics will be used to analyse facts. The following would be calculated: averages, interquartile ranges, and standard deviations.

Section two  displaying of data

Many graphical methods will be utilised to represent information, such as tables, pie charts, pie charts, and bar charts.

Section three  analysis of data

A discussion will be offered in terms of what the information from the data would show.

Section four  a critique and/discussion of the data

Critical analysis of the relevance of the data and impacts of extraneous data variables will be made.

Section five  own idea for the data collection

In this section, opinions about the formulation of the research question in the future will be given.

Section six  evaluation of own ideas for data collection

This part will have ideas that would concentrate on what would be done to assess the secondary data in a better manner in the future.

Conclusion

The validity, reliability, and generalisation of the data used in the analysis will be provided.

Section one  Processing of the data

I have calculated the average number of international visitors using the following formula:

Mean = sum of visitors divided by the number of years (5 years). I have also calculated standard deviations of the data based on the allowed variations that are within a 95% confidence interval.

Figure 1. A table showing the mean number of tourists who visited England and France in the 2009-2013 period. The table also shows standard deviation values for the computed data.

It is also important to calculate the extent to which the data are spread and determine the aspects described below:

• Maximum score  this is the highest value of a variable.
• Minimum score  this is the lowest value of a variable.
• Range  is the variation between the highest and lowest values (Green & Salkind 2010).
• Median  is defined as the value that lies in the middle of numerical figures that are arranged in ascending order (Pagano 2012). Because the sample size in this context is 5, the middle value is achieved by dividing five by 2 and adding 1.
• Lower quartile  this is obtained using the expression ¼(n + 1), where n is the sample size (Pagano 2012).
• Upper quartile  is calculated using expression ¾(n + 1).
• Interquartile range  this represents the extent to which upper and lower quartiles vary (Pagano 2012; Stevens 2013).

Figure 2. A table showing the results of various aspects of the spread of the numbers of tourists.

Section two  displaying of data

Pie charts are used to show the amount of a circle that is occupied by the various numbers of tourists concerning the five years. It is critical to note that the angle of the segment is determined using the following expression:

Angle of segment = (subtotal/total) x 360

Section three  analysis of data

Figure 1 shows that France has more tourists than England in the five-year period that is analysed in this report, i.e., 29.2 million in England versus 81 million in France. However, as noted in figure 1, the data used in the analysis of France have more variability. Figure 2 exhibits that all statistical parameters in the analysis lie within the 95% confidence interval. The two box plots indicate that the number of visitors in the two nations does not maintain certain patterns. However, it is crucial to underscore that, as depicted in figure 5 and figure 6, the numbers of visitors in England and France have been increasing over the years. This could be due to the adoption of better tourist promotion approaches (Cooper, 2006; Höpken et al. 2010). The constant increases are also shown in the pie charts (figure 7 and figure 8).

Section four  A critique/discussion of the data

Although the secondary data were obtained from online databases, the persons involved in collecting them, and the initial sample sizes adopted could not be established. In addition, they did not include important information about age, marital status, income, and gender of visitors, yet they greatly impact tourist numbers (Ashworth & Larkham 2013; Boniface 2013).

Section five  own idea for data collection

My secondary data did not analyse income about the frequency of tourists. A vital prediction is that richer people are more likely to travel to tourist attraction centres than poor persons (Cooper 2006). It would be important to conduct a retrogressive study that would focus on understanding relationships between tourist numbers and other aspects such as marital status and age.

Section six  evaluation of own ideas for data collection

Research shows that data have different degrees of variability. For example, a focus on income would be appropriate in one context, but inappropriate in another where ages of tourists would be important. Stratified sampling methods would be applied to avoid bias.

Conclusion

Based on the fact that statistical calculations were done perfectly, it would be concluded that the secondary data were valid, reliable, and accurate. However, they could have been improved by performing more tests and incorporating more variables. My idea for data collection could enhance the study by ensuring that data are handled in a better manner that would lead to a significant reduction in bias.

References

Ashworth, G, & Larkham, P, Eds, 2013, Building A New Heritage (RLE Tourism). Routledge, London, United Kingdom.

Boniface, P, 2013, Managing quality cultural tourism, Routledge, London, United Kingdom.

Cooper, C, 2006, Knowledge management and tourism, Annals of tourism research, vol. 33, no. 1, pp. 47-64.

Green, SB, & Salkind, NJ, 2010, Using SPSS for Windows and Macintosh: Analyzing and understanding data, Prentice Hall Press, Upper Saddle River, NJ.

Höpken, W, Fuchs, M, Zanker, M, & Beer, T, 2010, Context-based adaptation of mobile applications in tourism, Information Technology & Tourism, vol. 12, no. 2, pp. 175-195.

Pagano, R, 2012, Understanding statistics in the behavioral sciences, Cengage Learning, Boston, MA.

Stevens, JP, 2013, Intermediate statistics: A modern approach. Routledge Academic, London, United Kingdom.

Appendix

The video game industry has grown into a multi-billion venture over the years. New games are produced by video game companies constantly. These games are in a variety of genres, ranging from violence to educational games. In recent years, there have been increased arguments about the impact of video games. These arguments arise as a result of the realization that the mass media has an impact on the audience. The effects of video games on players is a controversial issue because I simply believe that two to three opposing perspectives are making this issue difficult to resolve: video games have a positive effect on the players or no effect at all on them, while the third view supports that video games have a negative impact on the players.

I am writing about this issue because it has grown into a relevant subject that needs thorough analysis. I am also a parent who really cares for what my children watch or play as video games. As a parent, I only want the well being of my children as they grow from toddlers to their teenage years. Besides, I definitely do not want my house to be a place where violent kids are raised. The issue is relevant because it has been observed that more games have become bloody and realistic, leading to increased violent activities within the society. Violent games are also popular in comparison to other game genres. There have also been cases where adolescents and young individuals have depicted violent behavior; for example, the case of a shooting incident that occurred at a movie theatre in Aurora, Colorado in the U.S. (Carter 12). This portrays that video game players are negatively affected by violent video games. The effects are said to easily lead to increased violence within the society. My position is that video games have a negative impact on the player because they lead to increasing violent behavior.

Interest on the impact of video games can trace its origins to the 1970s when video games first appeared. They began as interactive 2D games, but they have evolved into appealing 3D games. Video games have become the favorite pastime for many people, especially children, over the decades and can affect their behavior and interactions. Research by Sparks (18) on the impact of video games provides further proof of this using experimentation to determine the impact of video games. This research entailed analysis of the content in question, conducting a survey of the users, and finally experimenting to determine the effect on each user. Early studies conducted on possible effects were inconclusive (Ferguson, Adolescents, Crime 60). However, with the development of better gamers, players were seen to be affected physically and emotionally by video games.

A high number of video games that are developed currently are violent in nature. Research findings by Sparks (25) during content analysis of media has shown that a high number of players prefer video games that depict violence. This has encouraged more manufacturers to develop violent games. Many of the manufacturers also ensure that the violence is closer to reality as possible. The same trend is also seen with the increasing development of horror and zombie games (Saleem, Anderson, and Gentile 283). It is observed that players easily try to ape what they see in video games. Manufactures ensure that their games are addictive and enjoyable for the players. This easily attracts the players to ape what they see in video games. The realistic nature of the games can also be seen in the kind of weapons used in games. This has led to the development of new problems. Carter mentions that, & gun manufacturers have developed video games to promote their brands (56). Thus, video games have been turned into an advertising agency that encourages the acquisition of weapons.

Video games can also affect how a child develops and their behavior towards others in the future. Individuals tend to begin playing video games from a young age. During a childs upbringing, the occurrences around the child play a significant role in socializing the child. Any child or adolescent who is exposed to violent video games can easily be influenced to practice what they see in the video games. Young people are easily attracted to video games and they ape what they experience from the video games (Ferguson, Violent Video Games 11). Researchers like Sparks are of the opinion that a child who has been influenced by video games cannot judge what is right or wrong. Children can reason that the violence depicted in video games is a societal expectation. For instance, Wolf states that, Children lack the reason to differentiate between good and bad when exposed to video games (416). The child will consider the entertainment aspect of the game, thereby becoming easily influenced on how they behave in real life. Some scholars opposing this view believe that video games cannot be blamed for violent behavior among children because violence already exists in the society and it is depicted within other forms of mass media like television (Layton par. 4). This is not true as the interactive nature of video games influences the player more in comparison to other forms of mass media.

Cases of young men and children committing acts of violence in public have been attributed to their exposure to video games. An example is a shooting that occurred at a high school in the US where the shooters had a history of playing video games. Their actions were attributed to experience with computerized violence (Vorderer and Bryant 328). Video games, although virtual, create an urge to practice what is seen in the video games. Carter mentions that, & repeated exposure to violent video games results in increases in violence (48). It leads to desensitization of players to the negative impact of violence. A research study conducted on 3000 children using a longitudinal study for 3 years found that many video game players develop cognitive schemas that guide how they act and view the real world (Dill, 451).

Video games increase the risks of violent behavior in society. It has been known that soldiers use video games to practice before they go out on missions. For instance, the U.S. army uses Doom II, a shooter game, during training missions (Carter 54). An individual can use such a game for mischievous purposes. Thus, violent video games can give tactics to a criminal about gun control and how to take control in a violent situation with ease. Sparks provides further proof by mentioning that, & modern technology is now so efficient that thousands of assaults that would have ended up as murders years ago never make it to todays murder statistics (101). For instance, over 65% of all homicides are attributed to guns in the U.S., raising an alarm about the negative consequences that can arise from gun violence within video games. Arguments have arisen that an individual will not be socially impacted by the violence depicted in games. An individual who is naturally non-violent will not be influenced to become violent once they are exposed to violent video games (Ferguson and Ivory 62). For such a person, they are able to understand that video games are only for entertainment purposes. This argument is refutable as the emotional attraction a video game establishes amongst its players can easily influence their behavior.

The effects of violent games are usually short-term in nature if the player does not play the games constantly. I believe that the user will be characterized by aggressive behavior for a short while and behave normally if they do not play the video game again. In comparison, a game addict can easily be influenced to become violent (Hasan, Bègue, Scharkow, and Bushman 225). Research conducted on high school students showed that a high number of individuals who played violent video games were characterized by behavior that was considered aggressive right after playing violent video games in comparison to the group that played non-violent video games (Hasan, Bègue, Scharkow, and Bushman 226).

Violent behavior also arises from video games due to the award mechanisms used in video games. In many games, a player is awarded for their achievements and punished if they lose the game. Achievements include advancement in the level of the game and gaining power-ups within games (LeJacq par. 2). This encourages the player to become more violent to beat a specific level. Moreover, the games contain different levels of difficulty. An individual who can easily accomplish the highest difficulty level can easily be violent in real life. Therefore, it becomes important to control the use of violent video games.

Various mechanisms have been used to control access to various types of video games. Manufactures ensure that their games have passed an ESRB rating to determine the target audience of their games. Many games that are considered as violent are rated as +18. Despite this, younger players are not deterred from purchasing such games. Most young people can easily have access to violent games due to their high availability. Vorderer and Bryant describe that, game addicts will want to play the latest games at all costs while ignoring the ratings (47).

Video games are also seen as detrimental to the cognitive development of an individual. Many video games are said to be addictive in nature. Thus, a player will spend most of the time playing games at the expense of other duties. Dill mentions that, Pathological gamers, (&) skip other activities to play video games (404). Many games developed over the past years have targeted youngsters, who are school going children and adolescents. Thus, the players spend more time on games than studies, thereby affecting their educational development. Video games can also result in problems with a child when the child is required to utilize specific cognitive skills. Gunter observes that, Video games might interfere with academic performance by offering a more attractive option than doing homework (70).

Video games also distract the player from real life situations. The player is unable to differentiate reality from the virtual world because of constant exposure to video games. It becomes harder for the player to interact with people in real life. Even though video games provide safer conditions to engage in activities that rarely occur in real life, the player loses focus on the reality and becomes influenced by the experiences in the video games (Hasan, Bègue, Scharkow, and Bushman 225). A player who constantly plays video games will find it harder to adapt into society. Playing video games involves taking up hours of gameplay in front of a gaming console. Thus, such an individual becomes less interested with social interactions and may lack proper social skills (Hasan, Bègue, Scharkow, and Bushman 225). For the player, playing video games provides an escape from society.

In conclusion, my argument seeks to prove that video games have a harmful effect on the player and the society as a whole. The effects of video games are wide and varied. In many cases, violent video games have been attributed to increased aggression among young players. Of course, we are all aware of the violence in the mass media especially from the television, but should that be an excuse to tolerate more platforms for violence in our society? Definitely not! In many video games, players are influenced to behave in a violent manner because of the recurring violence depicted within the video games. It has, therefore, become important to analyze the impact of violent video games on players through research. This will make it easier to avoid the problems that will arise as a result of exposing children and young individuals to violent video games.

Works Cited

Carter, Gregg Lee. Guns in American Society: An Encyclopedia of History, Politics, Culture, and the Law. 2nd edn. Santa Barbara, CA: ABC-CLIO, 2012. Print.

Dill, Karen E. The Oxford Handbook of Media Psychology. New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 2013. Print.

Ferguson, Christopher J. Violent Video Games and the Supreme Court: Lessons for the Scientific Community in the Wake of Brown v. Entertainment Merchants Association. American Psychologist 68.2 (2013): 57-74. Print.

Ferguson, Christopher J. Adolescents, Crime, and the Media: A Critical Analysis. New York, NY: Springer, 2013. Print.

Ferguson, Christopher J. and James D. Ivory. A Futile Game: On the Prevalence and Causes of Misguided Speculation about the Role of Violent Video Games in Mass School Shootings. In Glenn W. Muschert, Johanna Sumiala (ed.) School Shootings: Mediatized Violence in a Global Age (Studies in Media and Communications, Volume 7), London: Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2012: pp. 47-67. Print.

Hasan, Youssef, Laurent Bègue, Michael Scharkow, and Brad J. Bushman. The More You Play, the More Aggressive You Become: a Long-Term Experimental Study of Cumulative Violent Video Game Effects on Hostile Expectations and Aggressive Behavior. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology 49.2 (2013): 224-227. Print.

Layton, Julia. Do Violent Video Games Lead to Real Violence? n.d. Web.

LeJacq, Yannick. After Sandy Hook, Should Violent Video Games Call a Cease-Fire? The Wall Street Journal. 2012. Web.

Saleem, Muniba, Craig A. Anderson, and Douglas A. Gentile. Effects of Prosocial, Neutral, and Violent Video Games on Childrens Helpful and Hurtful Behaviors. Aggressive Behavior 38.4 (2012): 281-287. Print.

Sparks, Glenn Grayson. Media Effects Research : A Basic Overview. 4th edn. Boston, MA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning, 2013. Print.

Vorderer, Peter, and Jennings Bryant. Playing Video Games: Motives, Responses, and Consequences. New York, NY: Routledge, 2012. Print.

Wolf, Mark J P. Encyclopedia of Video Games: The Culture, Technology, and Art of Gaming. Santa Barbara, CA: Greenwood Press, 2012. Print.

Abstract

The paper provides the analysis of two pitches from Episode 11 in Season 6. The paper also presents a summary of the ideas discussed in the selected pitches. The comparison of the pitches features is supported by analyzing the business idea that is worth investing.

Evaluation of Pitches

Shark Tank is a TV series in each episode of which entrepreneurs try to attract attention to their products and services in order to win the investment as a result of providing an effective pitch. Two pitches from Episode 11 in Season 6 were selected for further analysis. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to summarize the ideas presented in the selected two pitches and compare them in order to state what project can be discussed as potentially profitable and worth investing.

The first pitch was spoken by Stephen Hersh, the founder of Biaggi. Hersh presented Biaggi as a line of foldable luggage that is effective to save space at home when the luggage is not used (Shark Hunters, 2016). The main difference that distinguishes Biaggi from other lines is the possibility to fold these products. Therefore, the target customers are travelers and businessmen.

The second pitch was presented by Lydia Evans who described the main features of Soaps Washes and Grooming Essentials (S.W.A.G. Essentials) developed for men. This soap was presented as having unique moisturizing qualities, and it can be used as a scrub for men. The target audience includes men who pay attention to skincare, and the main difference of this soap from others is in its ability to prevent inflammation while using a razor.

It is important to state that both entrepreneurs identified the purposes of the products clearly and with the focus on problems that they could solve. Business ideas were easy to understand. However, in a case of S.W.A.G. Essentials, Evans could not formulate the reason for transforming the hobby in business and provide the plan for the marketing expansion. Still, both entrepreneurs were rather passionate about their products and businesses. Thus, Hersh wanted to overcome business mistakes made in the past. He stated: consumer education is the challenge, and his focus was on addressing this aspect (Shark Hunters, 2016).

In her turn, Evans planned to concentrate all her energy on the hobby. Nevertheless, Hersh seems to be more convincing than Evans because Hersh knows the aspects of the business world and he has the clear goal that can be achieved with the focus on gaining investment. Evans has no well-developed ideas regarding the future development of her business. Still, it is important to note that both entrepreneurs can leave investors wanting to learn more about these businesses because there are many details to focus on in order to develop an effective strategic plan.

It is possible to follow the opinion of experts from Shark Tank and invest in Biaggi because Hershs ideas and goals are formulated clearly. The entrepreneur understands weak points of his strategy, and he is ready to work on overcoming them (Arnold, 2012). As it is noted by Mark Cuban, the fear of future mistakes can be good motivation for persons who have the certain experience in the field (Jarvis & Abraham, 2014). The idea provided by Evans requires more details and development when the idea by Hersh is ready to be implemented.

While comparing the pitches, it is also important to note that the entrepreneurs used different approaches to presenting their ideas. Hersh focused on the direct comparison of his products qualities to competitors ones by means of demonstration. Evans referred to anecdotes to support her ideas, and she provided samples of the product without demonstrating its qualities. Therefore, the focus on the direct demonstration of the product qualities should be selected for developing a pitch (Wilcox & Fabozzi, 2013).

The purpose of the paper was to analyze the two pitches and compare them in terms of their effectiveness. This task is appropriate to demonstrate how presentations of business ideas can differ. Furthermore, the paper is important to focus on aspects in the pitches that guarantee their success.

References

Arnold, G. (2012). The financial times guide to investing: The definitive companion to investment and the financial markets. New York, NY: Pearson.

Jarvis, R., & Abraham, M. (2014). Mark Cuban on the no. 1 reason entrepreneurs fail.

Shark Hunters. (2016, September 22). S06 E11 [Video file].

Wilcox, J. W., & Fabozzi, F. J. (2013). Financial advice and investment decisions: A manifesto for change. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons.

Introduction

The contemporary world faces a rapid advancement in the digital sphere. Day after day, new opportunities are uncovered for people in all aspects of life, including household chores, entertainment, education, and others. It is only natural that such a shift occurs in arts in general and in literature in particular. The newly introduced audial and visual means of rendering socially relevant issues through the perspective of artistic view provide a broader scope of influence on the audience.

The comparison of printed literature to the new manifestations of digital presentation of common themes shows that the new ways of visual portrayal allow for utilizing means other than language to deliver an important thought. This paper analyzes the means of an artistic portrayal of reality as compared to the American dream in Hughes poem Let America Be Great Again and the movie The Pursuit of Happyness directed by Muccino.

The Analysis of Langston Hughes Poem Let America Be Great Again

As the title of Hughes poem Let America Be Great Again implies, this piece of literature addresses the question of the American dream and how its inaccessibility marks peoples lives. The genre of the work is a social lyrical poem that manifests the need for America to become a country that provides an opportunity to be happy for everyone. The author hesitates if America ever was great, but he believes that it is possible to change it. Many bright literary devices are used to describe the failure of the social reality contemporary for the author to correspond to the proclaimed values of freedom, equality, and happiness.

Hughes uses repetitions let it be followed by the indications of unachieved goals to underline what America should be (Hughes 131). Such metaphors as Liberty Is crowned with no false patriotic wreath and equality is in the air vividly underline the importance of freedom and equal rights to be real and not only articulated as priorities (Hughes 131). The author uses repetitions I am over and over again to emphasize that the society of America consists of ordinary people who are farmers, workers, immigrants, and servants (Hughes 131-132). All these people are dreamers who want America to be the dream they dreamt (Hughes 131).

In such a manner, the poem is a rich representation of socially relevant issues, which are vividly portrayed by the poets bright language. This example of print literature shows how literary devices, rhyme, rhythm, and emotionally colored language can influence a reader, thus retrieving necessary emotions and reactions. The tools which modern non-print manifestations of literature use are different in their spectrum and application and might present a wider scope of influence.

The Analysis of the Movie The Pursuit of Happyness

The movie plot unveils the financial challenges a young man Christopher Gardner (played by Will Smith), and his family face in their struggle to live a normal life in an American city. The movie raises the social themes which oppose harsh reality to the dreams of happiness and prosperity. People live in a country where they are given a right to the pursuit of happiness, as is stated in the Declaration of Independence.

In the movie, Christopher wonders why Thomas Jefferson formulated his thought in this particular way using the word pursue (Muccino). Ultimately, since it is so difficult to live the American dream, probably the main hero articulates the thought of millions of average Americans by saying, maybe happiness is something that we can only pursue, and maybe we can actually never have it (Muccino).

Unlike print literature, the movie utilizes not only language but visual and audial means that increase the level of influence on the viewer. The decorations of accommodation, daily life, and transportation of the main heros family have visually portrays the life reality of an average American. It is obvious that without money to pay rent and taxes, one cannot be happy in America. Being happy here means being rich and have a successful career. This idea is vividly demonstrated in the scene where an expensive car races along the street in which a queue of homeless poor people stand waiting to get a place to stay in a shelter (Muccino).

Hunger, poverty, and homelessness exist alongside luxury and fortune. Christopher sacrificed his family while desperately trying to find happiness for his son and himself. The difficulties which he had to solve until he achieved success and got the position at a company are not explicitly articulated by means of language in the film. On the contrary, Christophers silent tears when he was informed about his new position impact the viewers emotions more than any words could.

Moreover, the music broadly used by the director in the film allows for audial emphasizing of the emotional background of essential issues. The worries and fears of both the main hero and his wife are shown in the background of lyric and sometimes intensive music that implies disturbance and danger. Positive tunes accompany the leading character when he starts his journey at a new company. Such sound effects help the author of the work to underline the necessary emotional shades and bring important emotions and feelings to the surface.

Visual Enhancement of the Social Commentary Common to American Literature

Despite the portrayal of a common theme of pursuing an American dream as a life goal of an average US citizen in the two analyzed works, the ultimate effects are different. The printed literature work utilizes a wide spectrum of literary devices to influence a reader and render socially relevant issues. However, all the means used by Hughes in his poem are limited to language, thus becoming less accessible for the modern person.

Since such a digital medium as cinematography can display a message not only with the help of language but also by employing visual and audial tools, it enhances the influential power of literature. In Muccinos movie, the acting itself, the facial expressions, body language, decorations, and music are combined to amplify the effect provided by simply written dialogues. Such observations might serve as proof that modern society tends to employ more diverse means of the arts to broaden the scope of effect of print literature.

Conclusion

Classic print literature is a powerful constituent of the artistic world of any nation. Due to its masterful utilization of a word for the retrieval of necessary emotion or reaction from the reader, it comprises a substantial part of the arts. However, the rapid advancement of technology and the global digitalization of all aspects of life bring change to literature as well. Readers nowadays look for easier and faster ways of consumption of information. Thus, visual, audial, or short textual works gain more popularity and gradually supersede print literature from common use.

Works Cited

Hughes, Langston. The Collected Works of Langston Hughes: The poems, 1921-1940. University of Missouri Press, 2001.

Muccino, Gabriele, Director. The Pursuit of Happyness. Columbia Pictures, 2006.