What effect has the media had on your life? Most probably our answer would be: I am aware of the media, but I am not affected by it! What influence has your incredible exposure to the media had on your life and on the lives of the people with whom you live?
The rise of digital media and communications technologies have helped redefine experiences of space and time but, in terms of everyday cultural experience, they have supplemented rather than replaced ‘old’ media forms and integrated within youth’s existing cultures and social relationships. It has created a paradox of life, which needs to bridge.
There can be no doubt that media pervades social life. The audio-visual media, print and other communication technologies play major role in modern human existence, mediating diverse interactions between people. Moreover, they are numerous, heterogeneous and multi-faceted. Even more, we cannot deny that media are dynamic and ever changing, constantly reacting to economic and popular forces. The modes like news, advertising, film, radio, television, fashion, the book – have undergone an alarming sea of changes in recent years. [...]
Table of Contents
1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION
1. CHAPTER ONE: ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF MEDIA
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Definition of Terms
1.2.1 Mass Media
1.2.2 Media Culture
1.3 Media Development
1.4 Function of Media
1.5 Types of Media
1.5.1 Basic Media
1.5.1.1 Oral / Verbal
1.5.1.2 Written
1.5.2 Innovative Media
1.5.2.1 Print Media
1.5.2.1.1 News Papers
1.5.2.1.2 Magazines and Periodicals
1.5.2.1.3 Books
1.5.2.2 Electronic Media
1.5.2.2.1 Radio
1.5.2.2.2 Television
1.5.2.2.2.1 Digital TV
1.5.2.2.2.2 Cable TV
1.5.2.2.3 Motion Pictures and Videos
1.5.2.3 Telecommunication
1.5.2.3.1 Telephones
1.5.2.3.2 Mobile Phones
1.5.2.4 Computer Media
1.5.2.5 Internet as the most Dominant Media of the Times
1.5.2.5.1 Internet and India
1.5.2.5.2 Internet Browsing
1.5.2.5.3 Instant Messaging / Chatting
1.5.2.5.4 E-Mail and Web Mail
1.5.2.5.4.1 E-Mail
1.5.2.5.4.2 Web Mails
1.5.2.5.5 Online Internet Chatting
1.5.2.5.7 Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
1.5.2.5.6 Distance Education
1.5.2.5.8 Online Entertainment
1.5.2.5.9 Online Social Networking
1.5.2.5.10 E-Advertising
1.5.2.6 Networking of Computer and Cellular Phone
1.5.2.6.1 Wireless Technology
1.5.2.6.2 Wireless History
1.5.2.6.3 Bluetooth Technology
1.6 Conclusion
2. CHAPTER TWO: THE IMPACT OF THE MEDIA ON YOUTH
2.1 Introduction
2.2 India a Unique Cultural Society
2.2.1 Media and India
2.2.2 Indian Culture and Media Value System
2.2.3 Socio-Cultural Situation in India
2.2.4 Media Culture and Youth
2.2.5 Diverse Effects of Mass Media: Values at Stake
2.2.5.1 Consumerism
2.2.5.2 Creating Global Concern
2.2.5.3 Blind Ambition
2.2.5.4 Conformity
2.2.5.5 Preconception and Prejudice
2.2.5.6 Culture of Violence
2.2.5.7 Sexual Promiscuity
2.2.5.8 Valueless Values
2.3 Challenges of the Changing Media Culture
2.4 Social Effects of Television Media
2.4.1 Effect of Television on Children
2.4.2 Effect of TV on Students and Youth
2.4.2.1 Positive Impact
2.4.2.1.1 Films and Serials as Art
2.4.2.1.2 TV Programmes as Communication
2.4.2.2 Negative impact
2.4.2.2.1 Growth of Consumerism
2.4.2.2.2 Precocious Sexual Stimulation
2.4.2.2.3 Dress and Deportment
2.4.2.2.4 Psychological Influence
2.4.2.2.5 Violence in Movies/ Cinemas
2.4.3 Impact of Advertisements
2.4.3.1 Promotion of Violence
2.4.3.2 Female Stereotypes
2.4.3.3 Consumption of Tobacco and Alcohol
2.4.3.4 Identity Crisis
2.4.3.5 Haves and Have-nots
2.4.3.6 Identifying with the West
2.4.5 Impact on Family Life
2.5 Electronic Indian Youth
2.5.1 Use of Cell Phones
2.5.2 Internet Media
2.5.2.1 The Medium and Nature of Internet
2.5.2.2 Internet a Medium of Great Concern
2.5.2.2.1 Risks of Children on Internet
2.5.2.2.2 Internet Impact on Youth
2.5.2.2.2.1 Internet Addiction
2.5.2.2.2.2 Cyber Sex
2.5.2.2.2.3 Cyber Friendship
2.5.2.2.2.4 Pornography
2.6 Media and Religion of the Youth
2.6.1 Positive Impact
2.6.2 Negative Impact
2.6.2.1 Media has a Narcotizing Effect
2.6.2.2 Media and Individualism
2.6.2.3 Media affects Youth Spirituality
2.7 Conclusion
3. CHAPTER THREE: CHURCH’S RESPONSE TO THE MEDIA AFFECTED YOUTH
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Church and Media Today
3.2.1 Contrasts and Tensions
3.2.2 Tempting Attraction
3.2.3 Becoming Electronic
3.2.4 Attitude of Service
3.2.5 New Beginning
3.2.6 Evangelical Enthusiasm
3.2.7 Prosperous Growth in Catholic Church
3.2.8 Through Troubled Waters
3.2.9 Attraction of Internet Evangelism in the Web World
3.3 Church and Media: Challenging Situations for the Youth Today
3.3.1 Understanding the Transformative Power of Media Languages
3.3.2 Christian Education and all round Development
3.3.3 Participation and Networking
3.3.4 Church’s Net Mission
3.3.5 Christ-Oriented Communication through Media
3.3.6 Christian Witness - Core of the Message
3.4 Response to Media affected Youth
3.4.1 Media Pornography and Violence
3.4.2 Upkeep of Human Dignity
3.4.2.1 Right use of Media
3.4.2.2 Today’s Concern
3.4.2.3 Media a Necessity of the Time
3.4.2.4 Need for Awareness
3.4.3 Obligations for the Youth and Educators
3.4.3.1 Media Values of the Youth
3.4.3.2 Effect of Television on Family
3.4.3.3 Task of Parents towards their Children
3.5 Concern about the Cyber World Youth
3.5.1 The Church and Internet
3.5.2 Need for Liberative Ethics in Internet
3.5.3 Discerning Judgment of the Young
3.6 Media Spirituality of the Indian Youth
3.6.1 Discernment and Spiritual Guidance
3.6.2 Human Formation of the Young
3.6.3 Right choice of Virtue
3.6.4. Uphold a Culture of Respect, Dialogue and Friendship
3.6.5 Hold Spiritual Values
3.7 Conclusion
4. CHAPTER FOUR: SALESIAN VIRTUES TO FOSTER VIRTUOUS LIFE AMONG THE MEDIA AFFECTED YOUTH
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Francis de Sales –A Brief life Sketch
4.2.1 Birth and Early Life of Francis de Sales
4.2.2 Francis as a Student
4.2.3 Role of his Mother
4.2.4 Role of His Father
4.2.5 His Middle Age Challenges
4.2.6 The Turbulence of the Time
4.2.6.1 Protestant Reformation
4.2.6.2 Influence of Humanism and Paganism
4.2.6.3 Problem of Witchcraft
4.3 Revolutionary in the Chablais
4.3.1 Against Heretics / The Catholic Controversy
4.3.2 His Motivational Courage to the Young
4.3.3 Revival of the True Valentine’s Day
4.4 Task of Francis through the Basic Media
4.4.1 Sermons / Preaching
4.4.2 Spiritual Direction
4.4.3 Letter Writing
4.4.4 Personal Contact
4.4.5 Spiritaul Conferences
4.5 His Apostolate through Innovative Media
4.5.1 Pamphlets
4.5.2 Books
4.5.2.1 Introduction to the Devout Life
4.5.2.2 The Treatise on the Love of God
4.6 Salesian Guides to the Youth amidst the Web of Media Attractions
4.6.1 Necessity to Identify Evil and Frivolous Friendship Today
4.6.2 Flirtation and a Response to ‘Live-in Relationship’ in Today
4.7 Salesian Virtues – For an Integrated Personality
4.7.1 Simplicity
4.7.2 Practice of Humility and Preserve Reputation
4.7.3 Gentleness towards Neighbour and Oneself
4.7.4 Modesty in Language and Dress
4.7.5 True Detachment
4.7.6 Discernment for a Right Action
4.7.7 Lawful and Praiseworthy Pastimes and Recreations
4.7.8 Patience without any Reservations
4.7.9 Hospitality without any Distinction
4.7.10 Need for Genuine Friendship Today
4.8 Conclusion
Objective and Research Focus
This dissertation examines the pervasive impact of modern mass media—specifically digital and electronic formats—on the lives of contemporary Indian youth, while proposing a response rooted in the theological framework and Salesian virtues of St. Francis de Sales to foster a more dignified and virtuous life.
- The historical development of mass media and its transformation into an omnipresent cultural force.
- The analysis of negative effects of media consumption, including consumerism, violence, and identity crisis, on the youth.
- The specific challenges posed by digital connectivity and cyberspace, such as internet addiction and the erosion of interpersonal relationships.
- The role of the Church in guiding young people toward a critical and responsible use of technology.
- The application of Salesian virtues—such as humility, gentleness, and simplicity—as a spiritual remedy for the challenges of the "e-generation."
Excerpt from the Book
2.4 Social Effects of Television Media
These days in the computer and Television generation, the children are playing less, if they have not stopped it altogether. Many of them spent time watching TV for more than four hours daily while even a few went to play. They no more like to play with toys, rather like to watch, cartoons and any other programme that fascinates them. Due to watching TV and different channels, the life style, habits and behaviour of the children has changed.
Children devoted more time to their studies, and played more games, before the cable TV, computers and Internet could come into play. They now spend less time with others of their own age. On the other hand, their knowledge about the outside world, which had been very limited, is now greater. Another positive feature could be that they are more aware of things around than in the earlier days. They are more open and extrovert. They are more outgoing in relating to one another than the earlier conservative type of dealing.
Summary of Chapters
CHAPTER ONE: ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF MEDIA: This chapter provides a historical background of the mass media, focusing on the rapid evolution of technology and its influence on the modern communication landscape.
CHAPTER TWO: THE IMPACT OF THE MEDIA ON YOUTH: This section investigates the insidious negative effects of modern media culture on the youth, including issues such as consumerism, identity struggles, and the erosion of family life.
CHAPTER THREE: CHURCH’S RESPONSE TO THE MEDIA AFFECTED YOUTH: This chapter outlines the Church's pastoral mission to guide the younger generation by promoting critical media literacy and restoring human dignity through faith-based communication.
CHAPTER FOUR: SALESIAN VIRTUES TO FOSTER VIRTUOUS LIFE AMONG THE MEDIA AFFECTED YOUTH: The final chapter applies the spiritual teachings and virtues of St. Francis de Sales to contemporary life, offering a guide for youth to maintain virtuous, authentic lives in the midst of digital attractions.
Keywords
Mass Media, Indian Youth, Salesian Spirituality, Digital Culture, Television Impact, Internet Addiction, Cyber Ethics, Church Communication, Virtue Ethics, St. Francis de Sales, Consumerism, Human Dignity, Social Networking, Media Education, Family Values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core subject of this dissertation?
The dissertation explores the multifaceted impact of modern mass media culture on Indian youth and the proactive response required by the Church, utilizing the spiritual framework of St. Francis de Sales.
Which areas are identified as primary thematic Schwerpunkte?
The work focuses on the evolution of mass media, its psychological and social impact on youth, the role of the Church in digital spaces, and the application of Salesian virtues to navigate modern media challenges.
What is the primary goal of the research?
The primary aim is to assess the negative influences of media consumption on Indian youth and to provide a practical, virtuous path for restoring integrity and human dignity in the e-generation.
Which methodology does the author employ?
The research relies on an analytical and theological approach, examining existing media studies, church documents, and the historical life and writings of St. Francis de Sales to formulate guidelines for the present.
What topics are discussed in the main body?
The body covers the technical growth of media, the socio-cultural shifts in India, the social and psychological effects of television and internet usage, and specific virtues such as humility, simplicity, and gentleness.
Which keywords characterize this work?
Key terms include Mass Media, Indian Youth, Salesian Spirituality, Digital Culture, Internet Addiction, and Virtue Ethics.
How does the author view the role of the Church regarding the internet?
The author argues that the Church should not avoid the internet but rather embrace it as a vital mission field, teaching youth to navigate the cyber world with discernment, ethics, and a focus on human dignity.
What specific virtue is proposed for the "e-generation"?
The author emphasizes several Salesian virtues, particularly simplicity, humility, and patience, as essential tools for the e-generation to combat the pressures of consumerism and maintain a balanced, purposeful life.
- Citation du texte
- Albert Fernandes (Auteur), 2011, Youth and Media Culture. A Study on Church's Response from a Salesian Perspective, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/384241
