MIGRAIN: Collective identity in the online age
1) Read the article and summarise each section in one sentence, starting with the section 'Who are you?
The section “Who are you?” says identity is shaped through media images and profiles. The article argues modern media often focuses on image rather than meaning. It explains constant media exposure influences how people see reality. It also says people construct their online identity by selecting what to show. Finally, it explains companies collect user data to predict behaviour and target advertising.
2) Do you agree with the view that modern media is all about 'style over substance'? What does this expression mean?
“Style over substance” means focusing on appearance instead of real meaning. Modern media often prioritises image, but not all media lacks depth.
The section “Who are you?” says identity is shaped through media images and profiles. The article argues modern media often focuses on image rather than meaning. It explains constant media exposure influences how people see reality. It also says people construct their online identity by selecting what to show. Finally, it explains companies collect user data to predict behaviour and target advertising.
2) Do you agree with the view that modern media is all about 'style over substance'? What does this expression mean?
“Style over substance” means focusing on appearance instead of real meaning. Modern media often prioritises image, but not all media lacks depth.
3) Explain Baudrillard's theory of 'media saturation' in one paragraph. You may need to research it online to find out more.
Jean Baudrillard argued media saturation means people are constantly surrounded by media messages that shape reality, creating “hyperreality,” where media feels more real than real life.
4) Is your presence on social media an accurate reflection of who you are? Have you ever added or removed a picture from a social media site purely because of what it says about the type of person you are?
Social media is not always a fully accurate reflection of a person because people choose what to show, often shaping how others see them.
5) What is your opinion on 'data mining'? Are you happy for companies to sell you products based on your social media presence and online search terms? Is this an invasion of privacy?
Data mining is when companies collect and analyse user data to target adverts and products. Some people accept it for convenience, while others see it as an invasion of privacy.
Now read the cartoon in MM62 (p36) that summarises David Gauntlett’s theories of identity. Write five simple bullet points summarising what you have learned from the cartoon about Gauntlett's theories of identity. Our Media Magazine archive is here.
David Gauntlett argues identity is not fixed; people actively create and shape who they are over time. The media gives people tools and resources (images, role models, lifestyles) to help build their identity. Identity today is fluid and changeable, not tied to one stable role like in the past. People use media for self-expression, choosing elements that reflect the person they want to be. Modern identity is more about choice and personal construction rather than being determined by class, gender or tradition.
Jean Baudrillard argued media saturation means people are constantly surrounded by media messages that shape reality, creating “hyperreality,” where media feels more real than real life.
4) Is your presence on social media an accurate reflection of who you are? Have you ever added or removed a picture from a social media site purely because of what it says about the type of person you are?
Social media is not always a fully accurate reflection of a person because people choose what to show, often shaping how others see them.
5) What is your opinion on 'data mining'? Are you happy for companies to sell you products based on your social media presence and online search terms? Is this an invasion of privacy?
Data mining is when companies collect and analyse user data to target adverts and products. Some people accept it for convenience, while others see it as an invasion of privacy.
Now read the cartoon in MM62 (p36) that summarises David Gauntlett’s theories of identity. Write five simple bullet points summarising what you have learned from the cartoon about Gauntlett's theories of identity. Our Media Magazine archive is here.
David Gauntlett argues identity is not fixed; people actively create and shape who they are over time. The media gives people tools and resources (images, role models, lifestyles) to help build their identity. Identity today is fluid and changeable, not tied to one stable role like in the past. People use media for self-expression, choosing elements that reflect the person they want to be. Modern identity is more about choice and personal construction rather than being determined by class, gender or tradition.
1) What is collective identity? Write your own definition in as close to 50 words as possible.
Collective identity is the shared sense of belonging to a group based on common culture, values, experiences, interests or history. It is formed through media, traditions and social interaction, shaping how people see themselves as part of a wider community and how groups present themselves to others in society.
2) How does James May's Top Toys offer a nostalgic representation of Britain?
James May's Top Toys presents a nostalgic view of Britain by celebrating classic British toys, childhood memories and traditional culture, reminding audiences of a shared past and creating a warm, sentimental image of British identity.
3) How has new technology changed collective identity?
New technology has made collective identity more global and flexible, allowing people to connect through social media, online communities and shared interests rather than just location or nationality, creating digital communities and multiple identities.
4) What phrase does David Gauntlett (2008) use to describe this new focus on identity?
David Gauntlett (2008) describes this as a move towards “making your own identity” (the idea that identity is something people actively construct).
5) How does the Shaun of the Dead Facebook group provide an example of Henry Jenkins' theory of interpretive communities online?
The Shaun of the Dead Facebook group shows Henry Jenkins’ theory of interpretive communities because fans come together online to share meanings, jokes, references and interpretations of the film, collectively building a shared understanding and fan identity.
Collective identity is the shared sense of belonging to a group based on common culture, values, experiences, interests or history. It is formed through media, traditions and social interaction, shaping how people see themselves as part of a wider community and how groups present themselves to others in society.
2) How does James May's Top Toys offer a nostalgic representation of Britain?
James May's Top Toys presents a nostalgic view of Britain by celebrating classic British toys, childhood memories and traditional culture, reminding audiences of a shared past and creating a warm, sentimental image of British identity.
3) How has new technology changed collective identity?
New technology has made collective identity more global and flexible, allowing people to connect through social media, online communities and shared interests rather than just location or nationality, creating digital communities and multiple identities.
4) What phrase does David Gauntlett (2008) use to describe this new focus on identity?
David Gauntlett (2008) describes this as a move towards “making your own identity” (the idea that identity is something people actively construct).
5) How does the Shaun of the Dead Facebook group provide an example of Henry Jenkins' theory of interpretive communities online?
The Shaun of the Dead Facebook group shows Henry Jenkins’ theory of interpretive communities because fans come together online to share meanings, jokes, references and interpretations of the film, collectively building a shared understanding and fan identity.
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