Mass Media Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Mass Media - Research Paper Example The reach of mass media is so vast that the Internet users who were 40 million in population in 1995 increased their numbers to above 800 million in the year, 2005 (Brym and Lie, 2006, pp.108). From a peripheral view, it can be seen that mass communication, is a one way process but mass media theorists have after deeper introspection, put forward different view points as well, regarding the nature of mass communication. Some theories focus on the top down dissemination of information. Some present mass communication scenario in a totally different light where social conflicts are reinforced and some others stresses the mutuality involved in a mass communication process with the producer and consumer on both ends. Reception of messages, the process of decoding them, giving feedback, and behavioral changes associated with this whole affair have to be taken into consideration while studying mass media. While looking into the various aspects of the social theories and their impact on the mass media as well as on the society as a whole, it can be inferred that only the three major sociology theories (functionalism, conflict, interactionism) in combination can address the complexities involved with the social institution, mass media. ... ion, social control (and) entertainment† which are the pillars on which a particular order of the society can stay firm (Brym and Lie, 2006, p.546). The four basic premises of this theory are that a) social structures and patterns mould or influence human behavior, b) a particular social structure can develop or destroy the total social stability, c) such social structures are built based on shared concepts and values, and d) it is only a matter of regaining equilibrium so that the society remains stable and peaceful (Brym and Lie, 2006, pp.13). This theory has great scope in assessing the impact of mass media in society, which can be considered as a social structure capable of maintaining and destroying social stability. The information or message that is handed over to the consumer through mass media is viewed here as having a unifying function at conceptual levels of the society. An idea is disseminated, it is discussed, and a consensual position created in the society, whic h is an outcome of shared values. Similarly, each and every individual who cater to the information disseminated by mass media, is actually going through a socialization process, which enables him/her to function in a society in an acceptable manner. It is the learning process of accepted social behavior that occurs in the mass media space. Before the emergence of mass media, the young people had to depend solely on their family, community and school for socialization but after mass media came into being, it has become the most important socializing space and tool. This is why it is observed that the youth has an inherent tendency to create and maintain their identities by processing the cultural messages that they get from the media, i.e.; they tend to imitate the outward looks as well as

Environmental Health Assessment Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Environmental Health Assessment - Case Study Example In Kenya for example, we have the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA). The authority is charged with many tasks of managing the environment from destruction, key among them harmonizing a range of environmental management activities that is conducted by other lead agencies. Among other functions, it is also charged with promoting the incorporation of ecological deliberations into development strategies, projects, and programmes, with an oversight of ensuring rational utilization and proper management of environmental wealth on a sustainable yield basis (NEMA, 2008). To start up a project in Kenya, managers must apply to NEMA so that an environmental risk and health assessment can be undertaken. These procedures are usually done to identify an alternative project that harms the environment and health of citizens less. The assessments are also carried out in order to come up with mitigation procedures that can be used to reimburse for possible health and environmental impacts (Turnbull, 1991). In Kenya, NEMA reserves the final say of allowing industries to use the Kenyan environment to conduct their business. It licenses them after the assessment is done and the industries or projects are given a clean bill of health in environmental preservation. When projects flout the rules and start degrading the environment, NEMA can automatically revoke the license and the firm will cease to operate (NEMA, 2008). Kenya Utility Poles Ltd Due to high demand of electricity poles from Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), the main power distributor in Kenya, a consortium of investors from the United States has come up with a plan to build a multi-billion industry that will ease the demand for electricity poles. KPLC has been sourcing majority of its utility poles from neighboring Tanzania, thus using up a huge chunk of its revenue on utility poles. To KPLC, the investors' idea of starting up an industry that will mass produce utility poles at the heart of Nairobi, the capital city, is good news. But this is not well received by NEMA, the authority charged with managing the environment. After the investors presented their proposals to NEMA for consideration, it was realized that the company was intending to use Pentachlorophenol (PCP) chemical for poles preservation. Pentachlorophenol, hereafter known as PCP is mainly used as a restricted pesticide in farming activities. But it is also an effective wood preservative used mainly in wharf pilings, railroad tiers, and utility poles. When individuals are exposed to the chemical at high levels, various counterproductive health as well as ecological issues arises (What is pentachlorophenol, 2008). This is what is making NEMA to sound the alarm bell. The chemicals contained in PCP causes many health complications. They are known to damage the liver as well as weaken the immune system of victims. This will have direct health ramifications for workers of the proposed industry as well as those living in the vicinity. The chemicals are also known to raise the body temperatures and cause developmental defects to those who are exposed. Ecologically, PCP was found to be highly toxic to warm and cold fishes and all the other