Definitions of Mass, Mass media, Components of Mass, Mass Communication Process And Characteristics

Components of Mass Communication

The concept “mass” in mass communication is defined as large, heterogeneous, assorted and anonymous audience.

a) large

b) heterogeneous

c) assorted

d) anonymous

a). Large

Large means we can’t exactly count the number of the members of audience. It is relatively large but it doesn’t mean that the audience includes all people.

This presupposes the fact that messages that undergo mass communication process must be directed to very many people, like the ones sent through mass media of radio, TV, newspapers etc.

b). Heterogeneous

By heterogeneous, we mean mass communication messages cannot be segregated. It cannot be directed towards certain people without others hearing it. Every human being, irrespective of age, creed, sex, wealth and affluence get the messages at the same time. Biblically speaking, mass communication message is not a respecter of any man. It does not have regard for positions, and class. It is for all.

c). Assorted

Assorted means the audience of mass media is not necessarily limited to a particular geographical sector. They may be scattered everywhere. For example, a newspaper may have a reader in every nook and corner of the world.

d). anonymous

anonymous means we can’t specifically identify a reader or a viewer of a newspaper or a tv program with his certain characteristics. Today he may be reader of a particular newspaper or a viewer of a particular show. Tomorrow, he may change his media habit. Anybody at any time maybe a member of mass media audience.

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