Representation theorists

Question 1

Staurt Halls represenation theory

Answer 1

Stereotyping: Media often uses simplified and exaggerated traits to represent groups (especially marginalized ones).
- This can lead to misunderstanding, prejudice, and discrimination.
Power and Inequality: The powerful often control representations.
- This means certain voices are amplified, while others are silenced or distorted.
Hegemony : When the dominant group’s ideas seem “normal” or “natural” because they’re repeated in media.

Question 2

Why is halls theory important

Answer 2

representations in media are constructed and often reinforce stereotypes, serving the interests of dominant social groups.”

Question 3

David gauntlett identity theory

Answer 3

Diverse Representation
- Older media often relied on stereotypes, now, modern media offers more varied, complex characters, allowing people to see themselves reflected in different ways.

“Pick and Mix” Theory
- Audiences don’t accept one single identity from media.
- Instead, they pick and mix from many sources to create their own unique sense of self.

EG-YouTube creators sharing real-life experiences help viewers feel understood.
A teen might mix influences from K-pop, superhero films, and activist content to shape their identity.

Question 4

Why is gauntletts theory important

Answer 4

media provides individuals with resources to shape their own identities, offering a wider range of role models and representations in the modern age

Question 5

Bell hooks race, gender and class

Answer 5

Representation is political – who is shown, how they’re shown, and who controls the narrative matters.
Stereotypes often reflect white, male, and upper-class dominance.
Media often marginalises Black women and others who sit at the intersection of multiple identities.

Patriachy and racism , feminsm is for everyone , and oppsotional gaze.

Question 6

Why is bell Hooks theory important

Answer 6

media representation must be viewed through an intersectional lens, as systems of race, gender, and class work together to marginalise certain groups.

Question 7

Van zoonen representtion theoy

Answer 7

• Media helps create ideas about what it means to be “male” or “female”.
• These representations are often based on stereotypes and social expectations.

1. Women Are Often Sexualised
   - In patriarchal culture, women are usually shown as objects of male desire (the “male gaze”).
   - Their bodies are used to attract attention, especially in music videos, advertising, and film.
2. Men and Women Are Represented Differently
   - Men are often shown as powerful, active, and dominant.
   - Women are shown as passive, emotional, and decorative.
3. Representation Can Change
   - When women are behind the camera or in creative control, representations can challenge stereotypes.

Question 8

Why is van zoonen theory important

Answer 8

gender is constructed through media representations, often reinforcing patriarchal values by sexualising women and portraying men and women unequally.

Question 9

Judith Butler gedner performativity theory

Answer 9

Gender is performative, meaning it’s created through repeated actions, behaviours, and expressions over time.

1.Rejects Gender Binary
- Challenges the idea that people must fit into strict “male” or “female” roles.
- Says these roles are socially constructed, not biologically determined.

2. Media Reinforces Gender Performances
   - Media often shows us how to “act” male or female by promoting stereotypical behaviours.
   - These repeated portrayals help normalise gender roles in society.

3.Performativity ≠ Pretending
- It’s not about faking it—it’s about how identity is created by doing, not being.

Question 10

Why is butlers theory important

Answer 10

argues that gender is constructed through repeated actions and media plays a key role in reinforcing or challenging these performances.

Question 11

Paul gilroy post colonial theory

Answer 11

• Western media often continues to show non-white people as “other”, exotic, or inferior.
• These representations reflect colonial ideologies where white Europeans were seen as more civilised or powerful.

1. Othering
   - Non-European cultures are often portrayed as strange, dangerous, or uncivilised, reinforcing white superiority.
2. Racial Hierarchies
   - Media can reinforce stereotypes about Black people and other ethnic minorities (e.g., criminals, athletes, or entertainers only).
3. Double Consciousness
   - Black people may experience a split identity—seeing themselves through their own perspective and through the lens of how white society views them.

Question 12

Why is gilroys theory important

Answer 12

postcolonial attitudes still influence how ethnic minorities are represented, often reinforcing ideas of white dominance and Black otherness