Week 14: Categorization of Theories

Functionalist Theories of Communication

Three point of views:

  • Lasswell: Surveillance, Correlation and Transmission of culture
  • Wright (1960): Entertainment
  • Mendelssohn (1966): Mobilization

Theories related to Functions:

  • Uses and Gratification Theory
  • Diffusion of Innovation Theory
  • Agenda Setting Theory
  • Gatekeeping Theory
  • Social Learning Theory
  • Social Cognitive Theory
  • Knowledge Gap Theory

Theories related to Effects:

  • Spiral of Silence Theory
  • Cultivation Theory
  • Mass Society Theory
  • Two-Step Flow Theory
  • Theory of Media Violence & Information
  • Cognitive Dissonance Theory

Theories related to Structure:

  • Authoritarian Theory
  • Libertarian Theory
  • Soviet Communist Theory
  • Social Responsibility Theory
  • Development Media Theory
  • Democratic Participant Theory

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