Forum: Mass Media and Society

By Jerry Corbin

Friday, November 13th at 7:00 PM

Free! Free! Free!

Like it or not, mass media plays a profound role in how we perceive our world and ourselves. Our important decisions are often heavily influenced by the steady bombardment of images and subtle (and not so subtle) messages that we receive from popular media. Who we choose for mates, the kinds of cars we drive, the clothes we wear, and who we vote for; are all influenced to some degree by the mass media.

Those with access to the mass media, such as politicians and advertising agencies, are continuously searching for ever more powerful ways to influence your voting or purchasing behavior. "Spinning" the truth has almost become a recognized art form in today’s culture.

And what passes for news coverage today is a far cry from the days of Walter Cronkite. Separating fact from fiction (or rumor) has become harder. And there is always the nagging question about how they decide what to leave in and what to leave out.

In light of the November elections, and the on-going Clinton impeachment debate, it seems like an excellent time for Mensans to ponder the role of mass media in our society. Our speaker for the November Forum is well qualified to help us examine these issues.

Mary-Lou Galician, Ed D., is an Associate Professor at ASU’s "Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Telecommunications". She lectures frequently on the role of mass media in our society, and is nearly ready to publish a book about the romanticization of love in the mass media (you may have seen the Oct. 6th article in the Arizona Republic). The Forum promises to be a fun, stimulating, and interactive evening.

To get to AutoNation, take the Ray Road exit off I-10 East, turn left over the freeway on Ray, then turn left at the first road (Weber), go one block and turn left on Orchard. The Post-Forum discussion will be at Keegans only a few blocks away.

Questions?: Call Jerry Corbin at 438-0958.