Anthropology of Media: Digital Culture, Representation and Identity

In today’s interconnected world, media is more than just a tool for communication. It is the lens through which societies view themselves and the stage where cultures grow and transform. This course, Media Anthropology: From Printing Press to Digital Platforms, invites you to explore how media preserves long-standing traditions while shaping modern identities. You will examine the key functions of media, the differences between basic and mass media, and the powerful role that culture and technophilia play in how information is created, shared, and experienced.

Guided by the perspectives of anthropology, you will discover how scholars study media using participant observation, tracing developments from the earliest printing presses to the most advanced digital platforms. You will learn about cosmopolitanism, the use of visual media in ethnographic research, and the ethical considerations that arise in creating ethnographic films. The course also examines the idea of the gaze, photography during the colonial era, local self-representation in popular photography, and the enduring influence of the imperial gaze. These insights will equip you with essential skills for understanding the cultural dynamics of media.

You will also explore how media builds public spheres, supports independent voices, and encourages community participation through platforms such as community radio. The course will highlight the cultural importance of soap operas, how broadcast media shape religious identities, and the role of digital media in fostering new forms of global social interaction. By studying real-world examples, including the misuse of digital technologies, you will develop the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to understand, engage with, and influence the evolving media landscape of the future.