Critical Media Studies

An engaging and accessible introduction to a broad range of critical approaches to contemporary mass media theory and research 

A decade after its first publication, Critical Media Studies continues toshape and define the field of media studies, offering innovative approaches that enable readers to explore the modern media landscape from a wide variety of perspectives. Integrating foundational theory and contemporary research, this groundbreaking text offers the most comprehensive set of analytical approaches currently available. Twelve critical perspectives—pragmatic, rhetorical, sociological, erotic, ecological, and others—enable readers to assess and evaluate the social and cultural consequences of contemporary media in their daily lives.

The new third edition includes up-to-date content that reflects the current developments and cutting-edge research in the field. New or expanded material includes changing perceptions of race and gender, the impact of fandom on the media, the legacy of the television age, the importance of media literacy in the face of “fake news”, and developments in industry regulations and U.S. copyright law. This textbook:



Presents clear, reader-friendly chapters organized by critical perspective
Features up-to-date media references that resonate with modern readers
Incorporates enhanced and updated pedagogical features throughout the text
Offers extensively revised content for greater clarity, currency, and relevance
Includes fully updated illustrations, examples, statistics, and further readings

Critical Media Studies, 3rd Edition is the ideal resource for undergraduate students in media studies, cultural studies, popular culture, communication, rhetoric, and sociology, graduate students new to critical perspectives on the media, and scholars in the field.