In a discussion in their sociology class, Pia and Abdul disagree about the role of mass media in Canadian society. Pia insists that since everyone is free to turn off the television or their mobile devices, they obviously choose to watch whatever it is that they are watching. It follows that the mass media are producing programming for the audiences that they can find and that it is false to claim, as Abdul does, that mass media's effects are directed to any particular segment or class in society. Which theoretical approach is this consistent with?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pia's argument is consistent with the functionalist perspective that views society as a system of interrelated parts that work together to maintain social stability and order. From this perspective, mass media serves a functional purpose by providing entertainment and information to society as a whole, and audiences consume media content based on their own preferences and interests. Thus, Pia's argument that people have the freedom to choose what they watch reflects the functionalist view of media as a neutral and objective institution that serves the needs of all members of society.

In a Discussion in Their Sociology Class, Pia and Abdul