In the Fifth Edition of Media Analysis Techniques, Arthur Asa Berger once again provides students with a clearly written, user-friendly, hands-on guide to media criticism. The book empowers readers to make their own analyses of the media rather than just accept how others interpret the media. It begins by examining four techniques of media interpretation--semiotic theory, Marxist theory, psychoanalytic theory, and sociological theory--that Berger considers critical for creative people to acknowledge if they are to understand how their creations translate to the real world. Application chapters then link popular culture to these four theories. Written in an accessible style that demystifies complex concepts, Media Analysis Techniques includes a glossary, study guides, and the authors own illustrations.
Preface Acknowledgments Part I. Techniques of Interpretation 1. Semiotic Analysis 2. Marxist Analysis 3. Psychoanalytic Criticism 4. Sociological Analysis Part II: Applications 5. Murderers on the Orient Express 6. Seven Points on the Game of Football (and Some Interesting Statistics) 7. The Maiden with the Snake: Interpretations of a Print Advertisement 8. All-News Radio and the American Bourgeoisie 9. Video Games: A New Art Form 10. Cell Phones, Social Media and the Problem of Identity Epilogue: Shmoos and Analysis Appendix: Simulations, Activities, Games, and Exercises Glossary References Author Index Subject Index About the Author