With globalisation the convergence of media is inevitable
for several reasons. Firstly because of
the ease of communication media is not only local and national but also
global. While people are interested in
the local man who got put in jail they are also interested in the fact that
there have been shootings in America. If
this is the case why is it when you turn on the news, read a magazine or even
listen to the radio that all of the stories are the same? Is it purely the fact that 5 major companies
hold an oligopoly over global media? (Jenkins, 2004)
Yes there has been a convergence of global media; we are all
up in each other’s business wanting to know what’s going on. But it comes down to the individual; their
preferences, background and needs as to which information they seek out. This is what the internet has allowed us to
do, seek out the information we need. So
yes while there has been a major convergence of global media through large
transnational companies, the internet is the primary reason for this. It has allowed these companies to publish all of their breaking news and content online but has also allowed for a very
individualistic approach through youtube, social media and blogging. (Jenkins 2004)
Material that was previously unavailable has
become easily accessible with the internet. Those who speak different languages can buy books over the internet,
television shows or movies which suit your preference can be downloaded and
virtual communities form to share ideas online. In fact all media is available online, television, radio, newspapers, books, music and other forms have in a sense all been replaced or incorporated into the internet.
Reference List:
Jenkins, H., 2004, 'The Cultural Logic of Media Convergence', International Journal of Cultural Studies, vol. 7, Iss. 13.
