Tossing TV 8

Mass media refers to a broad range of channels and technologies used to reach a large, diverse audience. It is crucial for disseminating information, news, entertainment, and messages to the general public. Mass media encompasses various forms of communication, including television, radio, print media, the Internet, social media, film, advertising, new agencies, and books.

When I was younger, I remember coming home to watch Curious George at 5:00 p.m. on PBS Kids or ABC. My mom would've had a completely different experience. When she came home, she could only watch one channel, TV 8. This shift is a prime example of how quickly the media around us changes. In 20 years, we have completely shifted the structure of our media as it is now highly digital and technologically driven. This shift includes the digitalisation of content distribution and consumption. Print media has moved online, and cable TV has become online streaming and subscriptions. Now that many people have smartphones, media companies create content suitable for mobile consumption. The rapid change in the mass media has also made the topic of diversity in the media a conversation starter. People of colour (POC) and minorities are protesting that the media lacks inclusivity, and they would like to see others who look like them and face similar struggles on TV. Although the mass media isn’t as inclusive as it should be, there has been a significant change, as 20 years ago, the odds of seeing a POC weren’t nearly as likely as it is now. (R. K. Merton's 1946)

Amos 'n Andy. First Sitcom with POC 1951

The rise of social media has changed the way people interact with one another and the spread of news. The passing of a relative is no longer spread by word of mouth but by a WhatsApp status with a sad emoji. Sites like YouTube, Instagram and TikTok are now the primary source of most people’s entertainment and will likely revolutionise media consumption. This technology allows us to visit places and create experiences with a headset and the touch of a button. AI will personalise content, and AI-based journalism may be more common. Subscriptions and online payments may be made via cryptocurrency by people. These changes will lead to a global concern about data and privacy. Humans naturally are more comfortable around others, which may lead to a lack of trust when receiving news and services from AI. AI may cause a sudden desire for local journalists and news outlets to resurface, as there would be a lack of trust in artificial intelligence.