Mass Media and Social Transformation: An Overview

Abstract

The role of communication and mass media in the process of social change are one of the central areas of debates and deliberations in media studies. The present paper intends to discuss the role of mass media in transforming society. Mass media educates and informs people about varied contemporary issues so as to shape their opinion. It gives voice to the voiceless focusing on their concerns and worries, thereby contributing towards the process of change in society. The emergence of social media has also provided a public sphere where users can exchange ideas and emotions regarding issues of importance. There are also instances where social media has extensively been used for encouraging the youths for voter turnout, thus causing a transformation in society (Supli, 2013). Towards the implementation of good governance, the role of mass media and especially social media cannot be undermined. This study tries to assess the role of mass media including social media in the process of social transformation.