‘Works Cited'
'Books'
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Dennis Rome
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004) Page: 155
Branston,Gill,Stafford Roy(2003): the Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge.
‘Newspapers and magazines’
The Guardian
‘Internet’
Opening: http://www.acton.org/commentary/443_marxist_roots_of_black_liberation_theology.php
I.U University Newsroom: http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
Lenny Henry Quote: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
Trevor McDonald: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4531230.stm
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cassidy Body Bags Lyrics: http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
Lemont Felton: http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cadbury Resurrects Market With Trident: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
Althusser: http://www.marxists.org/reference/archive/althusser/1970/ideology.htm
Evening Standard: http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23484511-revealed-100-stabbings-in-london-this-year.do
Minstrels Stats: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minstrel
'Moving Image Texts'
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Trident Soft Banned Ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
Horror Movies (Saw 2)
Eastenders. BBC. 1985-Present
‘Works Consulted’
‘Books’
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Rome, D.
Stuart Hall. Procter, J.
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, T. Jewkes, Y. (2004)
The Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge. Stafford, R. (2003)
The Black and White Media Book. Handbook for the Study of Racism and Television. Revised Edition. Twitchin, J. (1992)
'Internet'
Opening: http://www.acton.org/commentary/443_marxist_roots_of_black_liberation_theology.php
I.U University Newsroom: http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
Lenny Henry Quote: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
Trevor McDonald: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4531230.stm
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cassidy Body Bags Lyrics: http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
Lemont Felton: http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cadbury Resurrects Market With Trident: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
Althusser: http://www.marxists.org/reference/archive/althusser/1970/ideology.htm
Evening Standard: http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23484511-revealed-100-stabbings-in-london-this-year.do
Minstrels Stats: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minstrel
'Moving Image Texts'
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Trident Soft Banned Ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
Horror Movies (Saw 2)
Eastenders. BBC. 1985-Present
P.I.M.P: 50 Cent
Hot Thang: Talib Kweli
Friday, 26 March 2010
Footnotes:
1)http://www.acton.org/commentary/443_marxist_roots_of_black_liberation_theology.php
2)Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Rome, D. (2004) P. 1
3)http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
4)The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan. T, Jewkes. Y. (2004) P. 195
5)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
6)The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, T, Jewkes. Y. (2004) P. 194
7)http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
8)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
9)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Black_and_White_Minstrel_Show
10)http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
11)http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
12)Eastenders. BBC. 1985-Present
13)The Media Student's Book. Authors: Stafford, R. (2003) P. 382
14)http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
15)http://www.acton.org/commentary/443_marxist_roots_of_black_liberation_theology.php
16)http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
17)Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype, Authors: Rome, (2004), D. P.
18)http://www.marxists.org/reference/archive/althusser/1970/ideology.htm
19)http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23484511-revealed-100-stabbings-in-london-this-year.do
2)Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Rome, D. (2004) P. 1
3)http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
4)The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan. T, Jewkes. Y. (2004) P. 195
5)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
6)The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, T, Jewkes. Y. (2004) P. 194
7)http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
8)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
9)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Black_and_White_Minstrel_Show
10)http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
11)http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
12)Eastenders. BBC. 1985-Present
13)The Media Student's Book. Authors: Stafford, R. (2003) P. 382
14)http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
15)http://www.acton.org/commentary/443_marxist_roots_of_black_liberation_theology.php
16)http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
17)Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype, Authors: Rome, (2004), D. P.
18)http://www.marxists.org/reference/archive/althusser/1970/ideology.htm
19)http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23484511-revealed-100-stabbings-in-london-this-year.do
Monday, 22 March 2010
‘“Blackness” stands for all victims of white oppression’.
To what extent is the media and its representations to blame for the negative attitudes in Britain towards black People
Black people have been the subject of controversy for many decades, even centuries; Since the days of slavery, and the ill treatment which they received on the slave-ships and plantations. Even though the treatments occurred a long time ago, it is still a historical event that portrays a negative label which lingers over the black culture. According to sociologists such as Stallworth (1994) , black men and women in the U.S have brought this upon themselves in the ways in which they conduct themselves on the streets, and draw attention to themselves. In contrast to this, however theorists such as Stuart Hall talk about the misrepresentations black people go through via the media and that the dominant negative representations which are constructed by the hegemonic elite and are not the production of black people themselves. This also demonstrates (according to the hypodermic model) the impact of the media on society, and on their overall views; arguing that some or most black people are innocent and do not fit the negative, racist representations that address or interrelate them. This essay will discuss the ways that black people are represented in the media, and whether or not the representations are accurate.
Throughout history, black people have been represented as ‘other’: the anomalies of society; consistently in a bad light and rarely ever spoken highly of. Only recently has there been a breakthrough with having a black president in the USA for the first time, but even so, how does that make a positive impact on British society? In the recent past, the media would repeatedly use the image of a black mugger in order to inflict ‘moral panic’ upon society. In Matthew Wood's words: "In the 1970s the image of the black mugger became a target of those wishing to instil concern in the minds of the public, a panic which was to lead to a great deal of prejudice and racism at every level of society and a fear which, to a large extent, remains today" . This relates to the issue of misrepresentation and Marxism, and how it often serves the interests of the powerful.
Yet, according to some, "Black people have largely portrayed as part of the mainstream middle class, which does not accurately reflect the lives of many blacks who find themselves excluded from such a life in advanced capitalist societies" . This could be connoted as a further stereotype, as it is common knowledge that the working class black male (according to stereotypes) is more likely to cause controversy or dispute. This can be seen in relation to my case study of the Trident Soft Gum ad , which shows a grown black man, to be speaking in broken English. Although he is shown situated on a stage, and clearly portrayed to be an entertainer, he still has a majority white audience shown to be looking in bewilderment at him as he talks and over-exaggerates the greatness of the gum.
"Advertising has traditionally relied on the use of stereotypes to put across information in a format that is quick and easy for the viewer or reader to understand" ; therefore, this behaviour could be connoted as 'white controlled', as it clearly isn't a positive representation of black people and even less so a representation which a black person would make of themselves. However, in saying that, it was the controversy of the advertisement which brought the gum its success; 'Cadbury's entry into chewing gum with Trident has resurrected the market and even restored Wrigley's fortunes' . Could it be that we are so desensitised to the negative imagery of black people that we simply accept it, embrace it, and ridicule it by using it as way of promotion and spreading laughs at another’s expense? To conclude, it is relevant that the ways which black people are presented in the media, could be reason as to how and why moral panic is aroused surrounding them, as there is a constant flow of negativity which lingers.
In relation, further historical texts such as The Minstrels , address just how black people were badly represented and mimicked. The Minstrels as a brief synopsis was a very popular text broadcasted on the BBC during the 60’s and 70’s. It made an excess (on average) of 18 000 000 views per show, was shown 6 477 times on stage in the space of 12 years , making it still to this day the most watched stage show of all time, but yet it featured white people playing black people with painted faces. This is historical evidence of the abuse black people have suffered in the media, and it goes to show just how widely accepted the show and the abuse actually was. Furthermore, as the broadcaster was the BBC, it would have been expected that they may have had a little more compassion and heart when addressing such issues, but instead shown t have blatant disregard for the importance of a person’s skin colour. Taking this all into account, we can assess that the ways which the media portrayed black people in the media near horrifying. On a positive note however, the show was taken off air in 1978 after the introduction of the Race discrimination act in 1976, which disallowed any mimicking or negative representation of any race to be broadcasted in any malicious way. This was a breakthrough, but still, people are suffering.
In continuation, there are many horror movies which tend to have the black man who dies first, or simply doesn’t live until the end of the movie. This has people asking whether it’s a subliminal hidden message, as there are very few films which have the black guy as the hero or simply living to see the end of the movie. Lemont Felton makes a quote stating; "Sometimes it seems as if the character of colour dies simply for being a character of colour" . If this is the case, why is there a race discrimination act? It seems that movie makers are trying hard to reflect the reality of a black man’s life, forgetting the fact that it is not only negative black men in this world, an example being President Obama; clearly a huge black icon and role model for people of all races. Or even Sir Trevor McDonald who was the first black news reporter for ITN in 1973. This could suggest that the media may be misrepresenting black people because there is a lack of black workers within the workforce.
"Not enough black people in top media jobs" is a quote made by Lenny Henry in the Guardian newspaper. There is nothing else to be said about the quote. It suggests that there are simply not enough black workers behind the scenes of T.V productions, BBC and Eastenders being the main culprits. The ways that black people are represented in soaps is worrying, almost making one look twice at the T.V, wondering if they really come across that way. Take the Truman family for example. A wife, who has been in an abusive relationship, has two kids to separate baby dads. She is never seen to be in a stable relationship; the current one being with a black priest who has already killed 2 people. She is mother and fatherless, not ever knowing her dad when she was younger. Although having a child successfully attending Oxford University, she has an older daughter that acts more Caucasian than those who are of that race. This is not a positive representation of black people, although it is a very sly representation, not visible to those who are passive viewers. It could also reiterate the quote in the sense that black people are scarce in the media production, as this is not a representation which would be broadcasted by a workforce with a black being, as it is invalid.
In contradiction, it has been said that the misrepresentation, and negative imagery of black people is caused by and a result of the actions taken by black people. It is still predominantly black people, who are in the negative media for issues such as knife and gun crime, but this is all the fault of those who are doing it and who are affected by it. As a result, black people are represented badly as hooded thugs etc. The ways black people portray themselves through music is also another controversial argument which arises. "Many men feel that the most compelling advertising representations of masculinity are ones that produce real levels of anxiety and inadequacy, even if male-culture, with its emphasis on 'strong' silences or loud camaraderie, makes it difficult to talk about or express such feelings" This is clearly shown in rap music. Take Cassidy for example, a world known rap artist, occasionally even dubbed the best ever. He has such negative lyrics that it is almost inevitable that there would be a negative representation of black people at some part. ‘But I still keep the A.K and the razor with me- I ball hard so other ballers is afraid to stick me- ‘cause if I get fouled ill probably shot the teck- And you can be the next nigga ill shoot to death’ - A lyric taken from his song ‘Body Bags’. Although it was a huge success in the US, it seems like it is a hard task for black people to rap about positive subjects which will uplift the spirits of the listener, so instead they address the listener directly threatening to ‘shank’ them, which can ultimately result in the listener being more fuelled with hatred and resentment in the world. It is also in addition to this, Hip-Hop which has much influence over people that it influences the actions they take part in on road, and handle situations; an example being involved in ‘beef’. Beef has to be fuelled before it escalates to this point, and rap music is known to be the fuel. Taking this all into account, we can assess that black people haven’t been the best at positively representing themselves, so why should the media reflect a non-existent positive image of them? ‘In today's terms, it is the conviction that, 40 years after the Civil Rights Act, conditions for blacks have not substantially changed’
In addition, author Dennis Rome also agrees that black people tend to negatively represent themselves through the media, and as this is a statement made by a black professor, it makes the reality of the situation even more depressing. “Contemporary media, he says, particularly through extreme gangster rap music, reality crime shows and newscasts, have essentially defined crime and given it a black face, despite statistics that paint a different picture. For example, he cites statistics that point to higher cocaine use among whites than blacks, an impression one does not get while watching the evening news or the reality show COPS” . This in itself is enough to show that perhaps it is not actually the media who are negatively representing black people and that it is in fact an issue brought around by the people themselves. In his book, he uses a quote made by Stallworth stating “Young black men and women both continue to follow patterns of slavery times. They become the monsters" . This shows the view of black people leading each other into dismay. The imagery of the chains, and everybody helplessly following each other into the same path could raise awareness of the extent of just how negatively influential each negative black person is to the next, and the next generation. They say that crime is on the increase, so how would it be in decades to come? People need to understand that the negative issues which they promote, and the speed at which it is followed is frightening, and if the time taken to write a negative lyric were invested in writing a positive influential one, the speed were which negativity is followed may be slowed down.
To evaluate, it is evident that the ways black people have been treated in history and used in order to make example to others, could be reason as to why they rebel and as a result end up a moral panic. Sociologists such as Louis Althusser argue that the media is like an ‘Ideological state apparatus’ , which could relate to the importance of the media and emphasizes the power which it holds over its viewers. It also further connotes the exact range of influence which it may possess over passive audiences. This can be deemed evident when studying the Evening Standard article on the amount of stabbings to take place in one year. Instead of using an exact number, the paper smartly uses a rounded number of 100, which can inflict a moral panic upon its readers. Overall, it can be said that the media is responsible for the negativity surrounding black people, as the media from music to moving image consistently refer to negative movements. There are very few positive rappers for example, and those that are, aren’t promoted enough to reach the landscape which negative rappers are; example being the differences between 50Cent, and Talib Kweli (both the same age, 50Cent however starting later but gaining the most success from more degrading and violent lyrics). This suggests that black people are pushed further towards negativity, as the positivity tends to be masked.
Word Count: 2208
Black people have been the subject of controversy for many decades, even centuries; Since the days of slavery, and the ill treatment which they received on the slave-ships and plantations. Even though the treatments occurred a long time ago, it is still a historical event that portrays a negative label which lingers over the black culture. According to sociologists such as Stallworth (1994) , black men and women in the U.S have brought this upon themselves in the ways in which they conduct themselves on the streets, and draw attention to themselves. In contrast to this, however theorists such as Stuart Hall talk about the misrepresentations black people go through via the media and that the dominant negative representations which are constructed by the hegemonic elite and are not the production of black people themselves. This also demonstrates (according to the hypodermic model) the impact of the media on society, and on their overall views; arguing that some or most black people are innocent and do not fit the negative, racist representations that address or interrelate them. This essay will discuss the ways that black people are represented in the media, and whether or not the representations are accurate.
Throughout history, black people have been represented as ‘other’: the anomalies of society; consistently in a bad light and rarely ever spoken highly of. Only recently has there been a breakthrough with having a black president in the USA for the first time, but even so, how does that make a positive impact on British society? In the recent past, the media would repeatedly use the image of a black mugger in order to inflict ‘moral panic’ upon society. In Matthew Wood's words: "In the 1970s the image of the black mugger became a target of those wishing to instil concern in the minds of the public, a panic which was to lead to a great deal of prejudice and racism at every level of society and a fear which, to a large extent, remains today" . This relates to the issue of misrepresentation and Marxism, and how it often serves the interests of the powerful.
Yet, according to some, "Black people have largely portrayed as part of the mainstream middle class, which does not accurately reflect the lives of many blacks who find themselves excluded from such a life in advanced capitalist societies" . This could be connoted as a further stereotype, as it is common knowledge that the working class black male (according to stereotypes) is more likely to cause controversy or dispute. This can be seen in relation to my case study of the Trident Soft Gum ad , which shows a grown black man, to be speaking in broken English. Although he is shown situated on a stage, and clearly portrayed to be an entertainer, he still has a majority white audience shown to be looking in bewilderment at him as he talks and over-exaggerates the greatness of the gum.
"Advertising has traditionally relied on the use of stereotypes to put across information in a format that is quick and easy for the viewer or reader to understand" ; therefore, this behaviour could be connoted as 'white controlled', as it clearly isn't a positive representation of black people and even less so a representation which a black person would make of themselves. However, in saying that, it was the controversy of the advertisement which brought the gum its success; 'Cadbury's entry into chewing gum with Trident has resurrected the market and even restored Wrigley's fortunes' . Could it be that we are so desensitised to the negative imagery of black people that we simply accept it, embrace it, and ridicule it by using it as way of promotion and spreading laughs at another’s expense? To conclude, it is relevant that the ways which black people are presented in the media, could be reason as to how and why moral panic is aroused surrounding them, as there is a constant flow of negativity which lingers.
In relation, further historical texts such as The Minstrels , address just how black people were badly represented and mimicked. The Minstrels as a brief synopsis was a very popular text broadcasted on the BBC during the 60’s and 70’s. It made an excess (on average) of 18 000 000 views per show, was shown 6 477 times on stage in the space of 12 years , making it still to this day the most watched stage show of all time, but yet it featured white people playing black people with painted faces. This is historical evidence of the abuse black people have suffered in the media, and it goes to show just how widely accepted the show and the abuse actually was. Furthermore, as the broadcaster was the BBC, it would have been expected that they may have had a little more compassion and heart when addressing such issues, but instead shown t have blatant disregard for the importance of a person’s skin colour. Taking this all into account, we can assess that the ways which the media portrayed black people in the media near horrifying. On a positive note however, the show was taken off air in 1978 after the introduction of the Race discrimination act in 1976, which disallowed any mimicking or negative representation of any race to be broadcasted in any malicious way. This was a breakthrough, but still, people are suffering.
In continuation, there are many horror movies which tend to have the black man who dies first, or simply doesn’t live until the end of the movie. This has people asking whether it’s a subliminal hidden message, as there are very few films which have the black guy as the hero or simply living to see the end of the movie. Lemont Felton makes a quote stating; "Sometimes it seems as if the character of colour dies simply for being a character of colour" . If this is the case, why is there a race discrimination act? It seems that movie makers are trying hard to reflect the reality of a black man’s life, forgetting the fact that it is not only negative black men in this world, an example being President Obama; clearly a huge black icon and role model for people of all races. Or even Sir Trevor McDonald who was the first black news reporter for ITN in 1973. This could suggest that the media may be misrepresenting black people because there is a lack of black workers within the workforce.
"Not enough black people in top media jobs" is a quote made by Lenny Henry in the Guardian newspaper. There is nothing else to be said about the quote. It suggests that there are simply not enough black workers behind the scenes of T.V productions, BBC and Eastenders being the main culprits. The ways that black people are represented in soaps is worrying, almost making one look twice at the T.V, wondering if they really come across that way. Take the Truman family for example. A wife, who has been in an abusive relationship, has two kids to separate baby dads. She is never seen to be in a stable relationship; the current one being with a black priest who has already killed 2 people. She is mother and fatherless, not ever knowing her dad when she was younger. Although having a child successfully attending Oxford University, she has an older daughter that acts more Caucasian than those who are of that race. This is not a positive representation of black people, although it is a very sly representation, not visible to those who are passive viewers. It could also reiterate the quote in the sense that black people are scarce in the media production, as this is not a representation which would be broadcasted by a workforce with a black being, as it is invalid.
In contradiction, it has been said that the misrepresentation, and negative imagery of black people is caused by and a result of the actions taken by black people. It is still predominantly black people, who are in the negative media for issues such as knife and gun crime, but this is all the fault of those who are doing it and who are affected by it. As a result, black people are represented badly as hooded thugs etc. The ways black people portray themselves through music is also another controversial argument which arises. "Many men feel that the most compelling advertising representations of masculinity are ones that produce real levels of anxiety and inadequacy, even if male-culture, with its emphasis on 'strong' silences or loud camaraderie, makes it difficult to talk about or express such feelings" This is clearly shown in rap music. Take Cassidy for example, a world known rap artist, occasionally even dubbed the best ever. He has such negative lyrics that it is almost inevitable that there would be a negative representation of black people at some part. ‘But I still keep the A.K and the razor with me- I ball hard so other ballers is afraid to stick me- ‘cause if I get fouled ill probably shot the teck- And you can be the next nigga ill shoot to death’ - A lyric taken from his song ‘Body Bags’. Although it was a huge success in the US, it seems like it is a hard task for black people to rap about positive subjects which will uplift the spirits of the listener, so instead they address the listener directly threatening to ‘shank’ them, which can ultimately result in the listener being more fuelled with hatred and resentment in the world. It is also in addition to this, Hip-Hop which has much influence over people that it influences the actions they take part in on road, and handle situations; an example being involved in ‘beef’. Beef has to be fuelled before it escalates to this point, and rap music is known to be the fuel. Taking this all into account, we can assess that black people haven’t been the best at positively representing themselves, so why should the media reflect a non-existent positive image of them? ‘In today's terms, it is the conviction that, 40 years after the Civil Rights Act, conditions for blacks have not substantially changed’
In addition, author Dennis Rome also agrees that black people tend to negatively represent themselves through the media, and as this is a statement made by a black professor, it makes the reality of the situation even more depressing. “Contemporary media, he says, particularly through extreme gangster rap music, reality crime shows and newscasts, have essentially defined crime and given it a black face, despite statistics that paint a different picture. For example, he cites statistics that point to higher cocaine use among whites than blacks, an impression one does not get while watching the evening news or the reality show COPS” . This in itself is enough to show that perhaps it is not actually the media who are negatively representing black people and that it is in fact an issue brought around by the people themselves. In his book, he uses a quote made by Stallworth stating “Young black men and women both continue to follow patterns of slavery times. They become the monsters" . This shows the view of black people leading each other into dismay. The imagery of the chains, and everybody helplessly following each other into the same path could raise awareness of the extent of just how negatively influential each negative black person is to the next, and the next generation. They say that crime is on the increase, so how would it be in decades to come? People need to understand that the negative issues which they promote, and the speed at which it is followed is frightening, and if the time taken to write a negative lyric were invested in writing a positive influential one, the speed were which negativity is followed may be slowed down.
To evaluate, it is evident that the ways black people have been treated in history and used in order to make example to others, could be reason as to why they rebel and as a result end up a moral panic. Sociologists such as Louis Althusser argue that the media is like an ‘Ideological state apparatus’ , which could relate to the importance of the media and emphasizes the power which it holds over its viewers. It also further connotes the exact range of influence which it may possess over passive audiences. This can be deemed evident when studying the Evening Standard article on the amount of stabbings to take place in one year. Instead of using an exact number, the paper smartly uses a rounded number of 100, which can inflict a moral panic upon its readers. Overall, it can be said that the media is responsible for the negativity surrounding black people, as the media from music to moving image consistently refer to negative movements. There are very few positive rappers for example, and those that are, aren’t promoted enough to reach the landscape which negative rappers are; example being the differences between 50Cent, and Talib Kweli (both the same age, 50Cent however starting later but gaining the most success from more degrading and violent lyrics). This suggests that black people are pushed further towards negativity, as the positivity tends to be masked.
Word Count: 2208
Sunday, 28 February 2010
Weekly Update (Via BlackBerry)
Ok, so last week was all about getting interview slots from peopl who do not attend Greenford High; most of which have been organised for this week.
I have interviews with:
Kane (who would come under the working classed, single parent family)
Keah (who is a young mother)
Ryan (who lives on an estate)
Rakim (")
Then I have interviews with the parents, and what their opinion of black peoples representation is within the media, and whether this representation is accurate.
I will feature an opinion from someone who lives outside london (kent), and see what they think about the representation.
All have been scheduled for this week.
Additional shots:
I will need to go up central soon in order to hustle interviews from the middle classed workers, which I understand will be hard.
Shots from a high view additionally hard. (I tried to take shots out of a niketown window and was stopped by security)
Shots of 4 estates can be taken at any given time.
Shots taken already:
Angry teens? (Kane boxing in his room)
Weed (2teens smoking weed in the garden in their spare time)
Props needed etc:
Nothing. Scenery shots are the most important aspect for this film in my production, so that I can use this to narrate over.
The storyboard is completed so I will scan and upload that at some point this week.
I have interviews with:
Kane (who would come under the working classed, single parent family)
Keah (who is a young mother)
Ryan (who lives on an estate)
Rakim (")
Then I have interviews with the parents, and what their opinion of black peoples representation is within the media, and whether this representation is accurate.
I will feature an opinion from someone who lives outside london (kent), and see what they think about the representation.
All have been scheduled for this week.
Additional shots:
I will need to go up central soon in order to hustle interviews from the middle classed workers, which I understand will be hard.
Shots from a high view additionally hard. (I tried to take shots out of a niketown window and was stopped by security)
Shots of 4 estates can be taken at any given time.
Shots taken already:
Angry teens? (Kane boxing in his room)
Weed (2teens smoking weed in the garden in their spare time)
Props needed etc:
Nothing. Scenery shots are the most important aspect for this film in my production, so that I can use this to narrate over.
The storyboard is completed so I will scan and upload that at some point this week.
Monday, 8 February 2010
Bibliography
'Works Cited'
'Books'
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Dennis Rome
Stuart Hall. Author: James Procter Page 79
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004) Page: 155
Branston,Gill,Stafford Roy(2003): the Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge.
Newspapers and magazines..
The Guardian.
Internet..
I.U University Newsroom: http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
Lenny Henry Quote: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
Trevor McDonald: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4531230.stm
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cassidy Body Bags Lyrics: http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
Lemont Felton: http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cadbury Resurrects Market With Trident: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Minstrels Stats: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minstrel
'Moving Image Texts'
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Trident Soft Banned Ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
Horror Movies (Saw 2)
Works Consulted..
Books..
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Dennis Rome
Stuart Hall. Author: James Procter Page 79
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004) Page: 155
Branston,Gill,Stafford Roy(2003): the Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge.
'Internet'
I.U University Newsroom: http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
Lenny Henry Quote: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
Trevor McDonald: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4531230.stm
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cassidy Body Bags Lyrics: http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
Lemont Felton: http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cadbury Resurrects Market With Trident: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Minstrels Stats: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minstrel
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Trident Soft Banned Ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
'Books'
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Dennis Rome
Stuart Hall. Author: James Procter Page 79
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004) Page: 155
Branston,Gill,Stafford Roy(2003): the Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge.
Newspapers and magazines..
The Guardian.
Internet..
I.U University Newsroom: http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
Lenny Henry Quote: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
Trevor McDonald: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4531230.stm
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cassidy Body Bags Lyrics: http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
Lemont Felton: http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cadbury Resurrects Market With Trident: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Minstrels Stats: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minstrel
'Moving Image Texts'
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Trident Soft Banned Ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
Horror Movies (Saw 2)
Works Consulted..
Books..
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Dennis Rome
Stuart Hall. Author: James Procter Page 79
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004) Page: 155
Branston,Gill,Stafford Roy(2003): the Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge.
'Internet'
I.U University Newsroom: http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
Lenny Henry Quote: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
Trevor McDonald: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4531230.stm
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cassidy Body Bags Lyrics: http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
Lemont Felton: http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Cadbury Resurrects Market With Trident: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Minstrels Stats: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minstrel
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Trident Soft Banned Ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
Thursday, 21 January 2010
To what extent is the media to blame for the negative social view in Britain surrounding Black People
To what extent is the media to blame for the negative social view in Britain surrounding Black People
Black people have been subjected to controversy for many decades, even centuries. From since slavery days and the ill treatment which they received on the slave-ships, and assessing this, we can see that even though it had taken place such a while ago, it is still a negative label which lingers over the black culture. According to Stallworth (1994), black men and women in the U.S have brought this upon themselves in the ways in which they conduct themselves on the streets, and draw attention to themselves. In contrast to this however, sociologists such as Stuart Hall talk about the misrepresentations black people go through via the media, and that the negative representations which are illustrated in society are not from the production of black people themselves. This can also connote the impact of the media on civilians, and their overall views; meaning that some or most black people are innocent and may not fit the negative representations they are addressed. This essay will discuss the ways that black people are represented in the media, and whether or not the representations are accurate.
In history, black people have been represented as the anomalies of society; consistently in a bad light and rarely ever spoken highly of. Only recently has there been a breakthrough with having a new black president, but even so, how does that make a positive impact on British society? According to historical references, the media would use the image of a black mugger in order to inflict moral panic upon society. In Matthew Wood's words: "In the 1970s the image of the black mugger became a target of those wishing to instil concern in the minds of the public, a panic which was to lead to a great deal of prejudice and racism at every level of society and a fear which, to a large extent, remains today". This relates to the issue of misrepresentation, as it is virtually impossible to categorise all black people by a poster. Furthermore, it further connotes that the ways where which black people have been treated in the past has been ruthless beyond comprehension, as white people have never been shown in this light unless a convicted rapist etc. This shows that there was much done in the past to erect a moral panic surrounding black people.
"Black people have largely portrayed as part of the mainstream middle class, which does not accurately reflect the lives of many blacks who find themselves excluded from such a life in advanced capitalist societies". This is another quote I have found useful as it illustrates the class which black people fit in. This could be connoted as a further stereotype, as it is common knowledge that the working classed black male (according to stereotype) is more likely to cause controversy or dispute; which can be seen in relation to my case study of the Trident Soft Gum ad, which shows a GROWN black man, to be speaking in broken English. Although he is shown situated on a stage, and clearly portrayed to be an entertainer, he does still have a majority white audience shown to be looking in bewilderment at him as he talks and over-exaggerates the greatness of the gum. This behaviour could be connoted as 'white controlled', as it clearly isn't a positive representation of black people and even less so a representation which a black person would make of themselves. However, in saying that, it was the controversy of the advertisement which brought the gum its success; 'Cadbury's entry into chewing gum with Trident has resurrected the market, and even restored Wrigley's fortunes'. Could it be that we are so desensitised to the negative imagery of black people that we simply accept it, embrace it, and ridicule it by using it as way of promotion and spreading laughs at another’s expense? To conclude, it is relevant that the ways which black people are presented in the media, could be reason as to how and why moral panic is aroused surrounding them, as there is a constant flow of negativity which lingers.
In relation, further historical texts such as The Minstrels address just how black people were badly represented and mimicked. The Minstrels as a brief synopsis was a very popular text broadcasted on the BBC during the 60’s and 70’s. It made an excess (on average) of 18 000 000 views per show, was shown 6 477 times on stage in the space of 12 years, making it still to this day the most watched stage show of all time. But yet it featured white people playing black people with painted faces. This is historical evidence of the abuse black people have suffered in the media, and it goes to show just how widely accepted the show and the abuse actually was. Furthermore, as the broadcaster were the BBC, it would be expected that they may have a little more compassion and heart when addressing such issues, and showing blatant disregard for the importance of a person’s skin colour. Taking this all into account, we can assess that the ways which the media portrayed black people in the media near horrifying. On a positive note however, the show was taken off air in 1978 after the introduction of the Race discrimination act in 1976, which disallowed any mimicking or negative representation of any race to be broadcasted in any malicious way. This was a breakthrough, but still, people are suffering.
In continuation, there are many horror movies which tend to have the black man who dies first, or simply doesn’t live until the end of the movie. This has people asking whether it’s a subliminal hidden message, as there are very few films which have the black guy as the hero or simply living to see the end of the movie. Lemont Felton makes a quote stating in his own words "Sometimes it seems as if the character of colour dies simply for being a character of colour". If this is the case, why is there a race discrimination act? It seems that movie makers are trying hard to reflect the reality of a black man’s life, forgetting the fact that it is not only negative black men in this world, an example being President Obama; clearly a huge black icon and role model for people of all races. Or even Sir Trevor McDonald who was the first black news reporter for ITN in 1973. This could suggest that the media may be misrepresenting black people because there is a lack of black workers within the workforce.
"Not enough black people in top media jobs" is a quote made by Lenny Henry in the Guardian newspaper. There is nothing else to be said about the quote. It suggests that there are simply not enough black workers behind the scenes of T.V productions, BBC and Eastenders being my main worry. The ways that black people are represented in soaps is worrying, almost making one look twice at the T.V, wondering if they really come across that way. Take the Truman family for example. A wife, who has been in an abusive relationship, has two kids to separate baby dads. Never in a stable relationship; the current one being with a black priest who has already killed 2 people. She is mother and fatherless, not ever knowing her dad when she was younger. Although having a child successfully attending Oxford University, she has an older daughter that acts more Caucasian than those who are of that race. This is not a positive representation of black people, although it is a very sly representation, not visible to those who are passive viewers. It could also reiterate the quote in the sense that black people are scarce in the media production, as this is not a representation which would be broadcasted by a workforce with a black being, as it is invalid.
In contradiction, it has been said that the misrepresentation, and negative imagery of black people is caused by and a result of the actions taken by black people. It is still predominantly black people, who are in the negative media for issues such as knife and gun crime, but this is all the fault of those who are doing it and who are affected by it. Because of this, black people are represented badly as hooded thugs etc. The ways black people portray themselves through music is also another controversial argument which comes up. "Many men feel that the most compelling advertising representations of masculinity are ones that produce real levels of anxiety and inadequacy, even if male culture, with its emphasis on 'strong' silences or loud camaraderie, makes it difficult to talk about or express such feelings" Page: 382. This is clearly shown in rap music. Take Cassidy for example, a world known rap artist, occasionally even dubbed the best ever. He has such negative lyrics that it is almost inevitable that there would be a negative representation of black people at some part. ‘But I still keep the A.K and the razor with me- I ball hard so other ballers is afraid to stick me- ‘cause if I get fouled ill probably shot the teck- And you can be the next nigga ill shoot to death’. This is a lyric taken from his song ‘Body Bags’, which was a huge success in the US. It seems like it is a hard task for black people to rap about positive subjects which will uplift the spirits of the listener, so instead they address the listener directly threatening to ‘shank’ them, which can ultimately result in the listener being more fuelled with hatred and resentment in the world. It is also in addition to this, well known that rap music has so much influence over people that it influences the actions they take part in on road, and handle situations, Example being ‘beef’. Beef has to be fuelled before it escalates to this point, and rap music is known to be the fuel. Taking this all into account, we can assess that black people haven’t been the best at positively representing themselves, so why should the media reflect a non-existent positive image of them?
In addition, author Dennis Rome also agrees that black people tend to negatively represent themselves through the media, and as this is a statement made by a black professor, it makes the reality of the situation even more depressing. “Contemporary media, he says, particularly through extreme gangster rap music, reality crime shows and newscasts, have essentially defined crime and given it a black face, despite statistics that paint a different picture. For example, he cites statistics that point to higher cocaine use among whites than blacks, an impression one does not get while watching the evening news or the reality show COPS”. This in itself is enough to show that perhaps it is not actually the media who are negatively representing black people and that it is in fact an issue brought around by the people themselves. In his book Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype, he uses a quote made by Stallworth stating “young black men and women both continue to follow to patterns of slavery times", which shows the view of black people leading each other into dismay. The imagery of the chains, and everybody helplessly following each other into the same path could raise awareness of the extent of just how negatively influential each negative black person is to the next, and the next generation. They say that crime is on the increase, so how would it be in decades to come? People need to understand that the negative issues which they promote, and the speed at which it is followed is frightening, and if the time taken to write a negative lyric were invested in writing a positive influential one, the speed were which negativity is followed may be slowed down.
To evaluate, it is evident that the way that black people have been treated in history and used in order to make example to others could be reason as to why they rebel and as a result end up a moral panic.
I.U University Newsroom: http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
Cassidy Body Bags Lyrics: http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Dennis Rome
Stuart Hall. Author: James Procter Page 79.
Lenny Henry Quote: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004) Page: 155
Branston,Gill,Stafford Roy(2003): the Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge.
Lemont Felton: http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
Trevor McDonald: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4531230.stm
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Trident Soft Banned Ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
Cadbury Resurrects Market With Trident: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Minstrels Stats: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minstrel
Black people have been subjected to controversy for many decades, even centuries. From since slavery days and the ill treatment which they received on the slave-ships, and assessing this, we can see that even though it had taken place such a while ago, it is still a negative label which lingers over the black culture. According to Stallworth (1994), black men and women in the U.S have brought this upon themselves in the ways in which they conduct themselves on the streets, and draw attention to themselves. In contrast to this however, sociologists such as Stuart Hall talk about the misrepresentations black people go through via the media, and that the negative representations which are illustrated in society are not from the production of black people themselves. This can also connote the impact of the media on civilians, and their overall views; meaning that some or most black people are innocent and may not fit the negative representations they are addressed. This essay will discuss the ways that black people are represented in the media, and whether or not the representations are accurate.
In history, black people have been represented as the anomalies of society; consistently in a bad light and rarely ever spoken highly of. Only recently has there been a breakthrough with having a new black president, but even so, how does that make a positive impact on British society? According to historical references, the media would use the image of a black mugger in order to inflict moral panic upon society. In Matthew Wood's words: "In the 1970s the image of the black mugger became a target of those wishing to instil concern in the minds of the public, a panic which was to lead to a great deal of prejudice and racism at every level of society and a fear which, to a large extent, remains today". This relates to the issue of misrepresentation, as it is virtually impossible to categorise all black people by a poster. Furthermore, it further connotes that the ways where which black people have been treated in the past has been ruthless beyond comprehension, as white people have never been shown in this light unless a convicted rapist etc. This shows that there was much done in the past to erect a moral panic surrounding black people.
"Black people have largely portrayed as part of the mainstream middle class, which does not accurately reflect the lives of many blacks who find themselves excluded from such a life in advanced capitalist societies". This is another quote I have found useful as it illustrates the class which black people fit in. This could be connoted as a further stereotype, as it is common knowledge that the working classed black male (according to stereotype) is more likely to cause controversy or dispute; which can be seen in relation to my case study of the Trident Soft Gum ad, which shows a GROWN black man, to be speaking in broken English. Although he is shown situated on a stage, and clearly portrayed to be an entertainer, he does still have a majority white audience shown to be looking in bewilderment at him as he talks and over-exaggerates the greatness of the gum. This behaviour could be connoted as 'white controlled', as it clearly isn't a positive representation of black people and even less so a representation which a black person would make of themselves. However, in saying that, it was the controversy of the advertisement which brought the gum its success; 'Cadbury's entry into chewing gum with Trident has resurrected the market, and even restored Wrigley's fortunes'. Could it be that we are so desensitised to the negative imagery of black people that we simply accept it, embrace it, and ridicule it by using it as way of promotion and spreading laughs at another’s expense? To conclude, it is relevant that the ways which black people are presented in the media, could be reason as to how and why moral panic is aroused surrounding them, as there is a constant flow of negativity which lingers.
In relation, further historical texts such as The Minstrels address just how black people were badly represented and mimicked. The Minstrels as a brief synopsis was a very popular text broadcasted on the BBC during the 60’s and 70’s. It made an excess (on average) of 18 000 000 views per show, was shown 6 477 times on stage in the space of 12 years, making it still to this day the most watched stage show of all time. But yet it featured white people playing black people with painted faces. This is historical evidence of the abuse black people have suffered in the media, and it goes to show just how widely accepted the show and the abuse actually was. Furthermore, as the broadcaster were the BBC, it would be expected that they may have a little more compassion and heart when addressing such issues, and showing blatant disregard for the importance of a person’s skin colour. Taking this all into account, we can assess that the ways which the media portrayed black people in the media near horrifying. On a positive note however, the show was taken off air in 1978 after the introduction of the Race discrimination act in 1976, which disallowed any mimicking or negative representation of any race to be broadcasted in any malicious way. This was a breakthrough, but still, people are suffering.
In continuation, there are many horror movies which tend to have the black man who dies first, or simply doesn’t live until the end of the movie. This has people asking whether it’s a subliminal hidden message, as there are very few films which have the black guy as the hero or simply living to see the end of the movie. Lemont Felton makes a quote stating in his own words "Sometimes it seems as if the character of colour dies simply for being a character of colour". If this is the case, why is there a race discrimination act? It seems that movie makers are trying hard to reflect the reality of a black man’s life, forgetting the fact that it is not only negative black men in this world, an example being President Obama; clearly a huge black icon and role model for people of all races. Or even Sir Trevor McDonald who was the first black news reporter for ITN in 1973. This could suggest that the media may be misrepresenting black people because there is a lack of black workers within the workforce.
"Not enough black people in top media jobs" is a quote made by Lenny Henry in the Guardian newspaper. There is nothing else to be said about the quote. It suggests that there are simply not enough black workers behind the scenes of T.V productions, BBC and Eastenders being my main worry. The ways that black people are represented in soaps is worrying, almost making one look twice at the T.V, wondering if they really come across that way. Take the Truman family for example. A wife, who has been in an abusive relationship, has two kids to separate baby dads. Never in a stable relationship; the current one being with a black priest who has already killed 2 people. She is mother and fatherless, not ever knowing her dad when she was younger. Although having a child successfully attending Oxford University, she has an older daughter that acts more Caucasian than those who are of that race. This is not a positive representation of black people, although it is a very sly representation, not visible to those who are passive viewers. It could also reiterate the quote in the sense that black people are scarce in the media production, as this is not a representation which would be broadcasted by a workforce with a black being, as it is invalid.
In contradiction, it has been said that the misrepresentation, and negative imagery of black people is caused by and a result of the actions taken by black people. It is still predominantly black people, who are in the negative media for issues such as knife and gun crime, but this is all the fault of those who are doing it and who are affected by it. Because of this, black people are represented badly as hooded thugs etc. The ways black people portray themselves through music is also another controversial argument which comes up. "Many men feel that the most compelling advertising representations of masculinity are ones that produce real levels of anxiety and inadequacy, even if male culture, with its emphasis on 'strong' silences or loud camaraderie, makes it difficult to talk about or express such feelings" Page: 382. This is clearly shown in rap music. Take Cassidy for example, a world known rap artist, occasionally even dubbed the best ever. He has such negative lyrics that it is almost inevitable that there would be a negative representation of black people at some part. ‘But I still keep the A.K and the razor with me- I ball hard so other ballers is afraid to stick me- ‘cause if I get fouled ill probably shot the teck- And you can be the next nigga ill shoot to death’. This is a lyric taken from his song ‘Body Bags’, which was a huge success in the US. It seems like it is a hard task for black people to rap about positive subjects which will uplift the spirits of the listener, so instead they address the listener directly threatening to ‘shank’ them, which can ultimately result in the listener being more fuelled with hatred and resentment in the world. It is also in addition to this, well known that rap music has so much influence over people that it influences the actions they take part in on road, and handle situations, Example being ‘beef’. Beef has to be fuelled before it escalates to this point, and rap music is known to be the fuel. Taking this all into account, we can assess that black people haven’t been the best at positively representing themselves, so why should the media reflect a non-existent positive image of them?
In addition, author Dennis Rome also agrees that black people tend to negatively represent themselves through the media, and as this is a statement made by a black professor, it makes the reality of the situation even more depressing. “Contemporary media, he says, particularly through extreme gangster rap music, reality crime shows and newscasts, have essentially defined crime and given it a black face, despite statistics that paint a different picture. For example, he cites statistics that point to higher cocaine use among whites than blacks, an impression one does not get while watching the evening news or the reality show COPS”. This in itself is enough to show that perhaps it is not actually the media who are negatively representing black people and that it is in fact an issue brought around by the people themselves. In his book Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype, he uses a quote made by Stallworth stating “young black men and women both continue to follow to patterns of slavery times", which shows the view of black people leading each other into dismay. The imagery of the chains, and everybody helplessly following each other into the same path could raise awareness of the extent of just how negatively influential each negative black person is to the next, and the next generation. They say that crime is on the increase, so how would it be in decades to come? People need to understand that the negative issues which they promote, and the speed at which it is followed is frightening, and if the time taken to write a negative lyric were invested in writing a positive influential one, the speed were which negativity is followed may be slowed down.
To evaluate, it is evident that the way that black people have been treated in history and used in order to make example to others could be reason as to why they rebel and as a result end up a moral panic.
I.U University Newsroom: http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/1580.html
Cassidy Body Bags Lyrics: http://www.metrolyrics.com/body-bags-lyrics-cassidy.html
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Dennis Rome
Stuart Hall. Author: James Procter Page 79.
Lenny Henry Quote: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004) Page: 155
Branston,Gill,Stafford Roy(2003): the Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge.
Lemont Felton: http://www.helium.com/items/766592-the-representation-of-black-people-in-film
Trevor McDonald: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4531230.stm
Matthew Wood: http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
Trident Soft Banned Ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5zWTuo_w
Cadbury Resurrects Market With Trident: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5245/is_7825_230/ai_n29383200/
Minstrels Show: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kc4EwD5hoA
Minstrels Stats: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minstrel
Xmas Task 5
Introduction:
In this paragraph, I intend to introduce the title of my Critical Investigation, and to briefly explain the concept behind it, and what I aim to find from it. I will also explain what a moral panic is. I will briefly touch upon the platform that I am going to be focusing my research on, and why I have chosen this platform. Lastly, I will briefly introduce the topic of black people and the extent moral panic has actually gone to.
1st Paragraph:
In my 1st paragraph, I aim to discuss the history of black people in more context, from its slavery days, to the civil rights. And its origins, throwing in a couple of qualitative data which will talk about different first hand encounters with moral panic, and how it may have shaped their life. Additionally I will be referring to several online articles which can be said to have caused moral panic over the issue, such as poverty and cultural deprivation being the main source and reason for violence amongst black teens in poverty stricken areas.
In this paragraph, I intend to introduce the title of my Critical Investigation, and to briefly explain the concept behind it, and what I aim to find from it. I will also explain what a moral panic is. I will briefly touch upon the platform that I am going to be focusing my research on, and why I have chosen this platform. Lastly, I will briefly introduce the topic of black people and the extent moral panic has actually gone to.
1st Paragraph:
In my 1st paragraph, I aim to discuss the history of black people in more context, from its slavery days, to the civil rights. And its origins, throwing in a couple of qualitative data which will talk about different first hand encounters with moral panic, and how it may have shaped their life. Additionally I will be referring to several online articles which can be said to have caused moral panic over the issue, such as poverty and cultural deprivation being the main source and reason for violence amongst black teens in poverty stricken areas.
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004)
"Black people have been largely portrayed as part of the mainstream middle class, which does not accuratley reflect the lives of many blacks who find themselves excluded from such a life in advanced capitalist societies",
"Black people have been largely portrayed as part of the mainstream middle class, which does not accuratley reflect the lives of many blacks who find themselves excluded from such a life in advanced capitalist societies",
http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
"In the 1970s the image of the black mugger became a target of those wishing to instil concern in the minds of the public, a panic which was to lead to a great deal of prejudice and racism at every level of society and a fear which, to a large extent, remains today".
Matthew Wood
This is another useful quote, as it addresses how racism could have been created as a moral panic in the 70's as a result of a stereotypical picture published. The picture clearly caused conflict and anger where it were distributed, and given a bad name to those who were innocently targeted.
2nd Paragraph:
In this paragraph, I will elaborate further on the 1st paragraph, except I will use primary evidence and sources from books as they will give a more traditional opinion as to why there is so much negative representation of black people in the media. I will address the historical youtube clip of The Ministrels as the video is clearly provoking. The things i use in this paragraph, are there in order to be argued against in the next.
In this paragraph, I will elaborate further on the 1st paragraph, except I will use primary evidence and sources from books as they will give a more traditional opinion as to why there is so much negative representation of black people in the media. I will address the historical youtube clip of The Ministrels as the video is clearly provoking. The things i use in this paragraph, are there in order to be argued against in the next.
3rd Paragraph:
In this paragraph, I will contradict the previous paragraph, stating that the moral panic is not on the increase and is the fault of those who represent themselves in this way.
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Dennis Rome
"According to Stallworth (1994), young black men and women both continue to follow to patterns of slavery times".
"According to Stallworth (1994), young black men and women both continue to follow to patterns of slavery times".
I will use various websites and articles issued by the Guardian, Independant, and Daily Mail sites to support this. Additionally, I aim to discuss the similarities between the texts, and contradict this in the next paragraph.
4th Paragraph:
In this paragraph, I aim to assess using the view of masculinity, whether or not the moral panic is correct or not.
Branston,Gill,Stafford Roy(2003): the Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge.
"Many men feel that the most compelling advertising respresentations of masculinity are ones that produce real levels of anxiety and inadequacy, even if male culture, with its emphasis on 'strong' silences or loud camaraderie, makes it difficult to talk about or express such feelings".
"Many men feel that the most compelling advertising respresentations of masculinity are ones that produce real levels of anxiety and inadequacy, even if male culture, with its emphasis on 'strong' silences or loud camaraderie, makes it difficult to talk about or express such feelings".
Page: 382
From this, I aim to evaluate if it is harder being a black male citizen living with moral panics rather than a female, as being male carries more stigma due to knife and gun crimes etc. I will use various theories to support my argument such as the black liberation theory.
Conclusion:
In this paragraph, I will summarise the rest of my essay, coming to my own rounded conclusion.
In this paragraph, I will summarise the rest of my essay, coming to my own rounded conclusion.
Wednesday, 20 January 2010
Xmas Task 4
The representation of black people in film
"Sometimes it seems as if the character of colour dies simply for being a character of colour". Lemont Felton
This quote can be used to sum up the overall upset and anger felt by the black ethnic group. It is sometimes nice to see a positive black role model in mainstream movies such as those from the horror genre etc, who are not riduculed, made to be the villian, or killed off before the ending in a horror or thriller movie.
http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/mtw9403.html
"In the 1970s the image of the black mugger became a target of those wishing to instil concern in the minds of the public, a panic which was to lead to a great deal of prejudice and racism at every level of society and a fear which, to a large extent, remains today".
Matthew Wood
This is another useful quote, as it addresses how racism could have been created as a moral panic in the 70's as a result of a stereotypical picture published. The picture clearly caused conflict and anger where it were distributed, and given a bad name to those who were innocently targeted.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2003/nov/25/broadcasting.race
"Not enough black people in top media jobs".
Lenny Henry
This quote alone sums up the thoughts on every black british citizens mind. Black people are under represented, and mis-represented when they are represented. Additionally, there are hardly any black workers in the background for the BBC. Take Eastenders for example, where the overall impression of the Truman family is that they choose the wrong people to fall in love with; Debbie, who is shown to have left and abusive relationship, and entered anew one with a killer. This is a representation of black people which doesn't seem to leave the minds of those who create the pieces. This could ultimately create a negative view of black people to the viewers of the show, and others like it.
http://www.socialistworker.org.uk/art.php?id=12132
"Last week saw the publication of a House of Commons home affairs committee report into young black people and the criminal justice system. It reveals that black people are discriminated against at every stage of the justice system, yet the word “racism” is hardly mentioned in the report".
This is a quote taken from the website Sociology Worker Online, which is written in a third person view. It talks about the ways the police treat and target black people on the street, and how they should do their best to alter their approach. This is a good site to use in my case study as it speaks of these issues, and talks about how this can be seen as a moral panic. The news hyping over the arrest rates and black people being all over the news could be a form of esculating moral panic, as they always seem to be under the darkest spotlight.
Monday, 11 January 2010
Xmas Task 3
To what extent is the media to blame for the negative social view in Britain surrounding Black People
Historical Text
Historical Text
This text is known as the Black and White Minstrels, and was famous for causing vast controversy in the 1960's. The show was first aired on the BBC from June 4th 1958, and continued until 1978, making excesses of 18,000,000 viewers on average per viewing. Lenny Henry wasactually contracted to appear in the show, and as a result, it was the start of his career, although he admits to regretting his part in the show.
The contraversial aspects of the show, were the fact that white people were used to characterise and act as black people, which could instantly cause a mass ridicule of black people. Although its airing ceased due to embarassment, despite the BBC seeing it a disgrace, it still went on to become a stage show... And a sucessful one at that. It showed 6,477 times on stage in the space of 12 years, making it the most publicly watched and aired show in history.
This has relevance to my case study, as it makes reference to the ways which black people have been represented in the past. Although there seems to be no malicious quotes or 'stab' at black people, they have taken the most important aspect of the people (skin colour), and used it in a vile way. As this is the BBC additionally, it raises more public concern, as it means that they are not doing their part in staying mutual. They had aired shows which had offend people maliciously and harmed viewing exeriece, but ultimately, tarnished the view of black peoplee throughout media viewers.
Xmas Task 2
To what extent is the media to blame for the negative social view in Britain surrounding Black People
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004)
" Black people have largely portrayed as part of the mainstream middle class, which does not accuratley reflect the lives of many blacks who find themselves excluded from such a life in advanced capitalist societies", Page: 155
" Advertising has traditionally relied on the use of stereotypes to put across information in a format that is quick and easy for the viewer or reader to understand". Page 154
The Media Studies, Authors: O'Sullivan, Tim, Jewkes Yvonne(2004)
" Black people have largely portrayed as part of the mainstream middle class, which does not accuratley reflect the lives of many blacks who find themselves excluded from such a life in advanced capitalist societies", Page: 155
" Advertising has traditionally relied on the use of stereotypes to put across information in a format that is quick and easy for the viewer or reader to understand". Page 154
These quotes struck my eye as useful quotations to use in my Critical Investigation, as they talk about the experiences of black people in the media, and touches more upon the representations which could be connoted through this.
The Black and White Media Book. Handbook for the Study of Racism and Television. Revised Edition. Author: J.Twitchin 1992
This book concentrates on the representation of black people in the British media featuring quotes of racial biasness. An example of this can be seen in the article entitled "Black Mythologies: Representation of Black People on British Television" (Angela Barry).
Branston,Gill,Stafford Roy(2003): the Media Student's Book.London Great Britain.Routledge.
"Many men feel that the most compelling advertising respresentations of masculinity are ones that produce real levels of anxiety and inadequacy, even if male culture, with its emphasis on 'strong' silences or loud camaraderie, makes it difficult to talk about or express such feelings". Page: 382
This quote can show us the way men carry themselves and express thir emotions, which is an important aspect in modern society. Additionally it alliterates the stereotypical views of the masculne emotion and the ways where which males are represented, which could relate to my case study as it could also be looked at in a negative view, and the ways which this negative view could cause moral panic.
Black Demons: The Media's Depiction of the African American Male Criminal Stereotype. Author: Dennis Rome
"According to Stallworth (1994), young black men and women both continue to follow to patterns of slavery times".
This quote implys that it is not actually the media who create the negative label of black people, they just do their part in addressing the nation; as that is the job of the news. Instead it implies that the people who put themselves under the negative spotlight are to blaim for the negative view they the y inflict apon themselves. This quote could be useful additionally, as it takes a different angle as to why there is such media panic about black people, and who actually creates it.
Sunday, 10 January 2010
Xmas Task 1.
To what extent is the media to blame for the negative social view in Britain surrounding Black People.
Trident Soft Gum Ad.
I have chosen this text as it is a prime example of the negative views which can be portrayed about black people.
This text went through much scrutiny and questioning by the OFCOM regulation service, in relation to claims of racism. The ASA received 519 complaints of racism within weeks of the first airing of the advertisement, which hosts a young black man speaking in rhyme about his experiences of the gum, in a caribbean accent. The counts of racism included stereotypical gestures which were deemed offensive, and also insensitive as the metropolitan 'black on black' gun crime scheme was also named 'Trident'. This caused a negative view of blac people in the case where they were shown to be illiterate, and dim-witted in killing their own kind.
At the start of the advert, we can see the main character of our advert standing on stage at what seems to be a stand up comedy stage; making him the subject of the audiences enjoyment. Straight away as he starts to talk, we can see he has the caribbean accent and weird facial expressions when he talks as if eating something sour. This is something found in the black community alot when we talk, as we tend to put emphasis into alot of our speech, therefore overdramatizing this can sometimes be seen offensive.
Additionally, we can see further on when he is handed the packet of the branded gum, that he is owe-struck by its appearance, having almost a buffonish look on his face. This in itself could connote that this guy (and possibly black people as a whole) can be perceived as stupid individuals who have no real intelligence and are facinated by the littlest distraction, which could be the cause of so many complaints. Furthermore, the representation shown in this especially when considering the historical aspects of black people, can lead many to feel disheartened that after black presendents and many other great achievements we have strived towards, we still can not break off the stupidity stereotype. As a result of this, the company could lose publicity, and the advertisment could backfire and cause a reverse effect on the public.
Later (2009), Cadbury (the joint company) went on to advertise another contraversial advertisement, advertising free-trade in Ghana though music and dancing. This is illustrated however, in a manner where it seems that it is all Ghanains can do correctly. They are shown parading from left to right of the screen, singing and dancing. Perhaps the company choose to use such stereotypical images in order to stick in the audiences minds. Not suprisingly enough, they were the subject of more speculation in relation to racism. Although found not guilty of it, they did make a shorter version of the advert, in order to play safe. The 1.01 minute long ad cut down to around 40seconds.
Sunday, 3 January 2010
Xmas Task 5: Essay Plan
"An investigation into the medias role in generating the ongoing moral panic in Britain surrounding knife crime"
Introduction:
In this paragraph, I intend to introduce the title of my Critical investigation, and to briefly explain the concept behind it, and what I aim to find from it. I will also explain what a moral panic is. I will briefly touch upon the platform that I am going to be focusing my research on, and why I have chosen this platform (Print Production)
1st Paragraph:
In my 1st paragraph, I aim to discuss the history of knife crime, and its origins, throwing in a couple of statistics as to when it were at its peak etc. Additionally I will be referring to several online articles which can be said to have caused moral panic over the issue, such as poverty and cultural deprivation being the main source and reason for violence amongst teens in poverty stricken areas.
2nd Paragraph:
In this paragraph, I will elaborate further on the 1st paragraph, except I will use primary evidence and sources from books as they will give a more traditional opinion as to why there is so much street violence. A quote I recently heard is that we have been this way for as long as caveman days, deemed survival of the fittest. As stated, I will touch more on the negative views on knife crime. The things i use in this paragraph, are there in order to be argued against in the next.
3rd Paragraph:
In this paragraph, I will contradict the previous paragraph, stating that knife violence is not on the increase and not such a big threat to the UK. I will use various wbsites and articles issued by the Guardian, Independant, and Daily Mail sites to support this. Additionally, I aim to discuss the similarities between the texts, and base the next paragraph on that.
4th Paragraph:
In this paragraph, I aim to assess fully the extent of how bad knife crime has become, and whether it is correct to cause a moral panic about it in order to publicise the full extent of he problem, or it is wrong, and that the media should handle things in a completely different manner. I will use various theories to support my argument (Marxism, Cultivation Theories etc).
Conclusion:
In this paragraph, I will summarise the rest of my essay, coming to a rounded conclusion.
Introduction:
In this paragraph, I intend to introduce the title of my Critical investigation, and to briefly explain the concept behind it, and what I aim to find from it. I will also explain what a moral panic is. I will briefly touch upon the platform that I am going to be focusing my research on, and why I have chosen this platform (Print Production)
1st Paragraph:
In my 1st paragraph, I aim to discuss the history of knife crime, and its origins, throwing in a couple of statistics as to when it were at its peak etc. Additionally I will be referring to several online articles which can be said to have caused moral panic over the issue, such as poverty and cultural deprivation being the main source and reason for violence amongst teens in poverty stricken areas.
2nd Paragraph:
In this paragraph, I will elaborate further on the 1st paragraph, except I will use primary evidence and sources from books as they will give a more traditional opinion as to why there is so much street violence. A quote I recently heard is that we have been this way for as long as caveman days, deemed survival of the fittest. As stated, I will touch more on the negative views on knife crime. The things i use in this paragraph, are there in order to be argued against in the next.
3rd Paragraph:
In this paragraph, I will contradict the previous paragraph, stating that knife violence is not on the increase and not such a big threat to the UK. I will use various wbsites and articles issued by the Guardian, Independant, and Daily Mail sites to support this. Additionally, I aim to discuss the similarities between the texts, and base the next paragraph on that.
4th Paragraph:
In this paragraph, I aim to assess fully the extent of how bad knife crime has become, and whether it is correct to cause a moral panic about it in order to publicise the full extent of he problem, or it is wrong, and that the media should handle things in a completely different manner. I will use various theories to support my argument (Marxism, Cultivation Theories etc).
Conclusion:
In this paragraph, I will summarise the rest of my essay, coming to a rounded conclusion.
Xmas Task 4: Additional Web Research
http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Students/hrb9701.html
MORAL PANIC
"If we do not take steps to preserve the purity of blood, the Jew will destroy civilisation by poisoning us all". (Hitler, 1938)
Famous quote made by Hitler in 1938. Important relation to my chosen case study as it shows the impact and levels of moral panic which can be broadcasted to audiences. This quote had inevitably caused the whole of Germany to despise and hate jews; later resulting in the acceptance of the holocaust.
If on person can justify the use of a knife upon another being, and get away without being proseecuted, it can therefore be acceptable for another to find a way out.. Therefore making the sheer cruelty of stabbings being numbed, and contrast in a wave of social acceptance.
MORAL PANIC ON KNIFE CRIME
Revealed: The truth about knife crime - it has soared by 35 per cent in some parts of Britain
This isn't actually a quote, but a newspaper heading, which is obviously eye-catching in order to gain the public eye, but can tend to cause a mass moral panic in the process. Stating the truth about knife crime tends to suggest that what is in this issue is new exclusive statistics which have'nt been mentioned in past editions or other newspapers. Lastly, because of the statistic included in the title (soared by up to 35% in some parts of Britain) the paper may come across more believable as a result; however generalised it actually is (soared by 35% in SOME PARTS of Britain). Therefore a moral panic can be unintentionally created, just by the wording used to publicise the paper.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/crime/article4269818.ece
MORAL PANIC ON KNIFE CRIME
Knife crime to replace terror as police priority (July 5th, 2008)
"Knife crime has overtaken terrorism as the No 1 priority for the Metropolitan Police, one of Britain’s most senior officers said yesterday".
This is another newspaper title which had caught my eye, and the main reason for this is the date where which it were issued. This were published almost exactly a year after the 7/7 bombings took place in London, so we'd presume that the main concern in London and Britain as a whole would be to try and prevent any more of these happenings from taking place; therefore it is quite suprising to see that one Britains most senior officers can announce this on behalf of the London police.
This can ultimately cause a widespread of panic, because of the sheer volume of knife crimes committed, and further emphasise this in the way which terrorism has been 'replaced' in the number one concern of he Met.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1159766/Cartoon-violence-makes-children-aggressive.html
ARTICLES ON CHILDHOOD AGGRESSION
'There is ample evidence that physical aggression on TV is associated with increases in aggressive behaviour, but there was little until this study that has shown a link between televised aggression and resulting aggression among children.'
I found this an interesting debate; courtesy of The Daily Mail website. Reporter Laura Clark states that there is too much violence found in children, and that it is a result of violence in children shows such as cartoons. She argues that cartoons are said to be rated 'fantasy violence' which can make the parents of these viewers feel that it is acceptable for their child to view these shows without their guidance. Additionally, in the article there was a survey on the most popular cartoons viewed amongst 95 10year olds. The results received were shocking, stating that the shows aimed at younger viewers were infact the most violent, having near 26 acts of violence whereas those aimed post14 were 5. This can cause a moral panic, because it can portray that perhaps we are the reason to blaim for knife crimes acceptability amongst teens.
http://www.ehow.com/about_4570679_does-poverty-cause-crime.html
Poverty and its influence on violence
'Realistic and reachable role models are far and few between, if any exist at all, which causes the children of those who live in these areas to look up to more unsavory figures who are living the high life through low living'.
I found that this was the most touchy and awkward topic to research, as it had very little quotes or articles touched upon by the major newspapers. From what i did find however, and from what we'd expect, violence in rural areas are mainly influenced or as a result of poverty; whether it be street muggings or gang killings for money. This quote drew my eye as it states that there are no real role models in an estate or 'neighbourhood', and as i have lived in an estate, i can say that this is relatively true. The role models are either the gang leaders who inflictpoverty on others for they're own benefits, or the drug dealers who become successful in what they do and gain respect from it. This as a result can come across to children as correct and acceptable, making them aspire to be like this. 'Why make money legally, when you can make it tax-free?'.
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