#14

Over the course of this semester I have learned an incredible amount about media and how it relates to the functioning of our society. This class has changed the way i view our culture, everything I see on TV, and how I view myself as a member of this society. Although it has made me far more critical of almost everything I see on a daily basis I do not believe this is a bad thing.
I feel that I have become far more critical of everything I see and hear through mainstream media. For example when I see the news I wonder, who paid for that? What are they trying to sell me? What is the full story? and What stories were completely left out?
When I view images in magazines I now take a closer look at the information those images convey. For example, they show me "ideals" in our society, they encourage never-ending consumption, and tell us we are not good enough unleass we consume and meet those ideals.
I have also become more aware of what I am buying. When I purchase a product I consider why I chose that particular one. It is amazing to realize the power advertisements and image have over us. Even with the smallest purchases, for example why do I buy a specific brand of yogurt, is it the color on the outside of this? The feel good images from the TV commercial?
When I buy clothing now I wonder what image this item will give. In a culture that is so image conscious it seems that people are making grand assumptions about my personality simply by the flats I grabbed this morning. Although I believe this is the wrong way to approach people/relationships/life we cannot deny that it happens at every moment of every day.
I have become more aware of the terrible things so many corporations are doing. Yes, I can refrain from buying their products but in that sense I truly am only one person. In order to change we must do more than that, I am only one person but if we work together we can all make a huge differece.

1. Where do we begin?
2. How can we change the laws surrounding corporate practices?
3. How can I change my peers?