Essay Problem: Approaches to Media Theory
A theory is an idea "that explains an event or behavior . . . brings clarity to an otherwise jumbled situation.... [it] synthesizes the data, focuses our attention on what's crucial . . ." But "[d]ifferent schools of thought will define theory in different ways depending on the needs of the theorist and on beliefs about the social world and the nature of knowledge" (Baran and Davis, 2012, p. 12).
Prompt: Outline your Research Question (RQ) and evaluate the kinds of theory presented so far this term. Among Postpositivist, Hermeneutic, Critical and Normative modes of analysis, explain which one you think is the most useful in answering your RQ about media's relationship to society. Explain why by outlining the features that make it best. Compare your choice for best with what you consider the second most useful theory for your RQ. What features make one superior to the other in answering your RQ?
The response should include a reference list. Using double-space, Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.