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0
Saffron
04/10/2025
Sociology
A-Level Sociology- The New Media
865
•
4 Oct 2025
•
Impact of Social Media and Technology on Communication - Easy Notes for Kids
1 / 3
Sociological Perspectives on New Media
Various sociological viewpoints offer insights into the impact of new media on society:
Postmodernism
Postmodernists argue that new media and popular culture have a significant influence on shaping identities in contemporary society:
- Media may have more impact on identity formation than traditional factors like family or class
- Increased access to global entertainment and diverse cultural influences
- Creation of new global hybrid styles in fashion, music, and lifestyle
Highlight: Postmodernists emphasize the role of new media in shaping identities and creating a more globalized cultural landscape.
Marxism
Marxist perspectives offer a critique of the postmodern approach and highlight concerns about power dynamics in new media:
- Globalization may restrict choice as media ownership becomes concentrated
- Global media culture can lead to homogenization rather than diversity
- Economic factors like poverty still limit access and consumption choices for many
Example: The concentration of media ownership in the hands of a few transnational companies exemplifies Marxist concerns about power in new media.
The Global Village Concept
The idea of the world as a "global village" suggests that new media is creating a more interconnected and culturally unified world:
- New media facilitates global cultural influences on lifestyle and consumption
- Increased awareness of diverse choices and online communities
Definition: The "global village" concept refers to the idea that new media technologies are creating a more interconnected world with shared cultural influences.
Criticisms and Limitations
While new media has transformative potential, several criticisms highlight its limitations:
- Postmodern perspectives may overlook persistent social inequalities
- Factors like poverty, patriarchy, and racial discrimination continue to limit access and choices
- The democratic potential of new media may be overstated, as large companies still exert significant influence
Vocabulary: "Digital underclass" refers to groups who are materially deprived and unable to afford or access new media technologies, potentially exacerbating existing social inequalities.
This exploration of new media highlights its complex and multifaceted impact on communication, culture, and society. While offering unprecedented opportunities for connectivity and information access, new media also presents challenges related to inequality, privacy, and the quality of public discourse.
Critical Perspectives on New Media Impact
The second page delves into various theoretical perspectives and criticisms of new media's societal impact, particularly focusing on surveillance and postmodern implications.
Highlight: The Cambridge Analytica scandal exemplifies concerns about data privacy and surveillance in the digital age.
The text explores several critical viewpoints:
Definition: Risk society, as defined by Beck, describes how multiple viewpoints in new media can undermine social cohesion.
Quote: "Keen (2007) calls the internet the cult of the amateur, as low quality, unregulated info becomes part of collective intelligence."
The sociological analysis reveals:
Vocabulary: Social capital refers to the benefits derived from social connections and networks, which some argue is diminishing due to digital isolation.
The New Media: Definition and Key Features
The new media refers to communication platforms that utilize digital technologies or the internet. This includes social media, streaming services, online gaming, smartphones, and smart TVs.
Key features of new media include:
- Digitality: Allows for rapid communication and efficient data storage
- Interactivity: Enables audience engagement and participation
- Convergence: Multiple media types accessible through a single device
- User-driven content: Puts consumers in control of media consumption
Definition: New media encompasses any form of communication that relies on digital technologies or the internet, characterized by interactivity and user control.
Example: A smartphone exemplifies new media convergence, offering access to social media, streaming video, web browsing, and more in one device.
Usage Patterns and Digital Divides
New media adoption varies across different demographic groups:
- Age: Younger generations tend to spend more time online than older adults
- Class: Lower-income groups may face barriers to access, creating a "digital underclass"
- Gender: Some differences exist in how men and women engage with certain digital platforms
Highlight: The generational divide in new media usage is significant, with younger people generally being more engaged with digital platforms compared to older adults.
Debates Surrounding New Media
Opinions on the impact of new media are divided:
Neophiliacs (Positive View):
- Increased consumer choice
- Enhanced user participation
- E-commerce revolution
- Potential for revitalizing democracy
Cultural Pessimists (Critical View):
- Concerns about surveillance and privacy
- Risks to social cohesion
- Spread of low-quality information
- Potential for cybercrime and social isolation
Quote: "The internet means we now live in a state of increased surveillance" - Cultural Pessimist perspective
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4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Impact of Social Media and Technology on Communication - Easy Notes for Kids
The rise of new media and digital technologyhas transformed modern communication, creating both opportunities and challenges across different demographic groups. Digital platforms have revolutionized how we interact, share information, and consume content, while simultaneously raising concerns about privacy, social... Show more
Sociological Perspectives on New Media
Various sociological viewpoints offer insights into the impact of new media on society:
Postmodernism
Postmodernists argue that new media and popular culture have a significant influence on shaping identities in contemporary society:
- Media may have more impact on identity formation than traditional factors like family or class
- Increased access to global entertainment and diverse cultural influences
- Creation of new global hybrid styles in fashion, music, and lifestyle
Highlight: Postmodernists emphasize the role of new media in shaping identities and creating a more globalized cultural landscape.
Marxism
Marxist perspectives offer a critique of the postmodern approach and highlight concerns about power dynamics in new media:
- Globalization may restrict choice as media ownership becomes concentrated
- Global media culture can lead to homogenization rather than diversity
- Economic factors like poverty still limit access and consumption choices for many
Example: The concentration of media ownership in the hands of a few transnational companies exemplifies Marxist concerns about power in new media.
The Global Village Concept
The idea of the world as a "global village" suggests that new media is creating a more interconnected and culturally unified world:
- New media facilitates global cultural influences on lifestyle and consumption
- Increased awareness of diverse choices and online communities
Definition: The "global village" concept refers to the idea that new media technologies are creating a more interconnected world with shared cultural influences.
Criticisms and Limitations
While new media has transformative potential, several criticisms highlight its limitations:
- Postmodern perspectives may overlook persistent social inequalities
- Factors like poverty, patriarchy, and racial discrimination continue to limit access and choices
- The democratic potential of new media may be overstated, as large companies still exert significant influence
Vocabulary: "Digital underclass" refers to groups who are materially deprived and unable to afford or access new media technologies, potentially exacerbating existing social inequalities.
This exploration of new media highlights its complex and multifaceted impact on communication, culture, and society. While offering unprecedented opportunities for connectivity and information access, new media also presents challenges related to inequality, privacy, and the quality of public discourse.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
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Critical Perspectives on New Media Impact
The second page delves into various theoretical perspectives and criticisms of new media's societal impact, particularly focusing on surveillance and postmodern implications.
Highlight: The Cambridge Analytica scandal exemplifies concerns about data privacy and surveillance in the digital age.
The text explores several critical viewpoints:
Definition: Risk society, as defined by Beck, describes how multiple viewpoints in new media can undermine social cohesion.
Quote: "Keen (2007) calls the internet the cult of the amateur, as low quality, unregulated info becomes part of collective intelligence."
The sociological analysis reveals:
Vocabulary: Social capital refers to the benefits derived from social connections and networks, which some argue is diminishing due to digital isolation.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The New Media: Definition and Key Features
The new media refers to communication platforms that utilize digital technologies or the internet. This includes social media, streaming services, online gaming, smartphones, and smart TVs.
Key features of new media include:
- Digitality: Allows for rapid communication and efficient data storage
- Interactivity: Enables audience engagement and participation
- Convergence: Multiple media types accessible through a single device
- User-driven content: Puts consumers in control of media consumption
Definition: New media encompasses any form of communication that relies on digital technologies or the internet, characterized by interactivity and user control.
Example: A smartphone exemplifies new media convergence, offering access to social media, streaming video, web browsing, and more in one device.
Usage Patterns and Digital Divides
New media adoption varies across different demographic groups:
- Age: Younger generations tend to spend more time online than older adults
- Class: Lower-income groups may face barriers to access, creating a "digital underclass"
- Gender: Some differences exist in how men and women engage with certain digital platforms
Highlight: The generational divide in new media usage is significant, with younger people generally being more engaged with digital platforms compared to older adults.
Debates Surrounding New Media
Opinions on the impact of new media are divided:
Neophiliacs (Positive View):
- Increased consumer choice
- Enhanced user participation
- E-commerce revolution
- Potential for revitalizing democracy
Cultural Pessimists (Critical View):
- Concerns about surveillance and privacy
- Risks to social cohesion
- Spread of low-quality information
- Potential for cybercrime and social isolation
Quote: "The internet means we now live in a state of increased surveillance" - Cultural Pessimist perspective
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user