Mulder, A. (2006). Media. Theory,
Culture & Society , 1-9.
Arjen Mulder, an academic and media theorist of Nottingham
Trent University brings experience to a thorough analysis of Media in theory,
culture and society. At the beginning he introduces the subject matter through
a loose definition that ‘media is a means of reaching others’. His opening
remarks funnel to a more specific definition, ‘media are extensions of our
sense into the public domain’. From
here, Mulder elaborates on media and modernism. He effectively refers to the
work of academic Marshall McLuhan, who explored how earlier examples of media
clear in Cubism and impressionist paintings were ‘mediums with a message’,
allowed artists a means of communication to the world they lived in. Finally,
Mulder discusses the media as we know it today, with the growing role of
journalists, emerging hybridisation of new media and television as a
significant modern day medium. He more or less defines current media to be a ‘collection
of machines with their operators’. The use of citations could have been used to
a greater extent to further validate the interesting points made by the author.
Despite this, Mulder‘s ideas address our understanding of media overtime, from
its earlier incarnations to what we know it as today.
Higgins, E., & Rout, M.
(2012). Defences at Odds with the Record. The Australian , 6.
The Australian published an article about Craig Thompson’s defence
against allegations of spending union funds on escort services. The article’s
authors, Ean Higgins and Milanda Rout are distinguished writers of the widely
acclaimed newspaper known for its highest-selling status, adding credibility to
the source. The article states how Thompson’s defence made in the House of
Representatives runs contrary to findings by Fair Work Australia and statements
of The New South Wales Police Department that he had paid for services using
documents of identification. Following Mr. Thompson’s implied statements that deputy
president of the FWA Michael Lawler was the culprit behind the investigation,
the authors provide a detailed report on how this rested on false grounds. Despite
The Australian being an example of commercial media, a profit-driven form of
media production, the article provides a detailed exploration of the story with
reference to credible public figures. The story includes a comprehensive table
that juxtaposes statements made by Thompson to official findings and statements
made by figures involved in the investigation.
Report, A. 7. (2012, May 21). Craig Thomson outlines 'set up' in HSU scandal. Retrieved May 23, 2012, from ABC News: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nb0--K6bfdQ
The author of this piece, political editor Heather Hewitt of the 7.30 report brings her expertise in political journalism to address the Craig Thompson scandal. Hewitt uses with great effect the opinion of multiple experts and involved individuals in the issue, which will influence the outcome of allegations made towards Mr. Thompson. This particular story angle explores the consequences of Mr. Thompson’s parliamentary address to the House of Representatives. The report hears from Health Union member Marco Bolano and acting national president Chris Brown, who offer counter arguments to Mr. Thompson’s claims. Hewitt continues by highlighting the lack of evidence Mr. Thompson holds in his defence that he spent Union funds on brothel visits and phone records to prove. At the end of the segment features various parliamentary figures who endorse Mr. Thompson’s rights to a fair trial. Overall, the author manages to remain impartial throughout the analysis of the issue through the use of counter-perspectives, adding credibility. Furthermore, The 7.30 Report of the ABC is an example of public media, whose mission is to serve and engage the public and not turn a profit. This exclusive report reflects this public service ethos through its balanced perspectives and support of democratic processes.
Westthorp, T., Lewis, S., & Clennel, A. (2012, May 25). Escort's claims could sink MP Craig Thomson. Retrieved May 25, 2012, from Couriermail.com.au: http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/national/escorts-claims-could-sink-mp-craig-thomson/story-e6freooo-1226366258203
The authors, Tanya Westthorp, Steve Lewis and Andrew Clennel of the Courier Mail present a story heavily in favour of Craig Thompson’s dismissal. In contrast with the other sources, this story appears to offer limited evidence into its subject matter, with inadequate references to support the points covered. It is an example of commercial media, thus, only serves to give brief information without going into much depth. It reveals that the woman at the centre of the latest scandal to be within speaking distance of The Daily Telegraph’s reporters. The author’s also briefly highlight the high probability of Craig Thompson’s wrong-doing with NSW police claiming evidence of use of a third credit card. Again, the article appears to show narrow points without much elaboration into the issue, which severely detracts from the credibility of the source. It shows heavy bias and lends no support to counter-arguments into Craig Thompsons conviction.
