Media Capitalism: Hegemony in the Age of Mass Deception

The book argues that media and capitalism have become inseparable, with media capitalism selling consumerism, creating pro-capital attitudes, and providing mass deception to hide the pathologies of capitalism. It traces the emergence of media capitalism and outlines how societies can transition from it to a post-media-capitalist society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 507 pages
Publication date: 17 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The relationship between media and capitalism has undergone a significant transformation, with the two entities no longer existing as distinct entities. This book argues that media and capitalism have become intertwined, forming a new economic and social system known as media capitalism. In this system, media outlets are not just passive channels of information dissemination but active participants in the economic system, driven by the pursuit of profit and market dominance.

The book offers three compelling reasons why media and capitalism cannot be separated. Firstly, mass media has become indispensable to capitalism due to its ability to sell the commodities of mass consumerism. Media outlets such as television, radio, newspapers, and magazines play a crucial role in promoting consumer products and services, shaping consumer preferences and driving demand. By leveraging their reach and influence, media companies can generate significant revenue and profits, contributing to the growth of capitalism.

Secondly, media capitalism creates pro-capital attitudes among a target population. Through the constant exposure to media messages and advertisements, individuals are influenced by the values and beliefs associated with capitalism. Media outlets often promote the benefits of economic growth, individualism, and competition, which can shape public opinion and influence political decisions. This pro-capital ideology can reinforce existing inequalities and contribute to the perpetuation of capitalist systems.

Thirdly, media capitalism provides mass deception to hide the pathologies of capitalism. While media outlets may highlight the positive aspects of economic development and technological progress, they often fail to address the negative consequences of capitalism. Mass poverty, rising inequalities, and the acceleration of global warming are some of the most pressing issues facing society today, but media capitalism often downplays or ignores these problems. By presenting a distorted view of reality, media capitalism can create a sense of complacency and prevent individuals from questioning the dominant economic system.

To illustrate the emergence of media capitalism, the book includes a historical chapter that traces the development of media industries and the rise of advertising as a primary source of revenue. Subsequent chapters explore how media capitalism has infiltrated various aspects of society, including the public sphere, education, the workplace, and democracy. The book demonstrates how media companies have used their power and influence to shape public opinion, influence political decisions, and control the flow of information.

The book concludes by outlining how societies can transition from media capitalism to a post-media-capitalist society. This involves a shift towards more democratic and accountable media systems, where media outlets are independent and free from corporate control. It also involves promoting a more equitable and sustainable economic system that prioritizes social welfare and environmental protection.

In conclusion, media and capitalism have undergone a profound transformation, forming a new economic and social system known as media capitalism. This book argues that media and capitalism cannot be separated, as mass media has become indispensable to capitalism due to its ability to sell commodities, create pro-capital attitudes, and provide mass deception. To address the challenges posed by media capitalism, societies must transition towards more democratic and accountable media systems and promote a more equitable and sustainable economic system.

Weight: 683g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030879600
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021