RESEARCH < posted November 24, 2001 >


Notes on the Field of Comparative Media Studies

Definition
Comparative Media Studies is the examination of media technologies and their cultural, social, aesthetic, political, ethical, legal and economic implications.

(source: MIT's Comparative Media Studies Department Web Site)

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Excerpts from a class discussion
(Discussion held on 11.15.2001 in CMS.800, Theories of Media at MIT taught by Henry Jenkins.)

The logic of comparative media studies is to find a common ground that takes advantage of multiple theoretical perspectives and points of view.

Comparative media studies is not seeking one truth, but instead is about trying to bring together a wide array of theoretical tools that allow each person to come to their own well-informed conclusions.

One of the biggest questions in the field is that of structure vs. agency. What is the role of author? of the viewer? of the corporation? How are messages created, transmitted, received, repurposed? Are they embraced or rejected? Why? What are the reasons behind decisions made by both sides?

The struggle of theory is to embrace momentum, dynamism, constant change and internal contradictions.

First, strive to understand. Then question. Conclusions and interpretations should come last.