Collective identity and representing ourselves

 Task 1: Media Magazine article

1) Read the article and summarise each section in one sentence, starting with the section 'Who are you?'

Who are you? Our identity is a blend of our own life experiences and the impact of the world around us, especially how we see ourselves through the media.

"The rise of the individual" refers to the growing emphasis on individualism, where personal uniqueness is celebrated.

"From citizen to consumer" highlights how we’ve shifted from focusing on our roles in society to being driven by the need to create and fulfill personal desires.

"Branding and lifestyle" speaks to how brands shape their identity by associating a ‘personality’ with their products, influencing not just what we buy, but how we see ourselves in relation to them.

2) Do you agree with the view that modern media is all about 'style over substance'? What does this expression mean?

The phrase "style over substance" implies that looks, branding, and image is more important than real meaning or authenticity. While I do believe that substance still has a place in fields like journalism, documentary film making, and independent content creation, it's clear that mainstream media and advertising often prioritise visuals and trends to grab attention quickly.

3) Explain Baudrillard's theory of 'media saturation' in one paragraph. You may need to research it online to find out more.

Baudrillard’s idea of media saturation suggests that we're living in a world where media images shape how we see reality, to the point where these images start to replace real-life experiences. He calls this "hyperreality," where it becomes hard to tell what's real and what's fictional because the two are so intertwined.

4) Is your presence on social media an accurate reflection of who you are? Have you ever added or removed a picture from a social media site purely because of what it says about the type of person you are?

People often share the best versions of themselves, carefully choosing photos or posts that showcase their positive sides or memorable moments. I know I’ve personally changed my profile  to fit the image I want people to see of me.

5) What is your opinion on 'data mining'? Are you happy for companies to sell you products based on your social media presence and online search terms? Is this an invasion of privacy?

Data mining can feel like a violation of privacy. While it often results in more tailored and useful suggestions, it also raises concerns about how much personal data is collected without our clear consent. Personally, I’m uneasy about how much data is mined, especially when companies can sell or share our information without full transparency. There should definitely be stricter regulations to protect our privacy.

Task 2: Media Magazine cartoon

Now read the cartoon in MM62 (p36) that summarises David Gauntlett’s theories of identity. Write five simple bullet points summarising what you have learned from the cartoon about Gauntlett's theories of identity.

Task 3: Representation & Identity: Factsheet blog task

1) What is collective identity? Write your own definition in as close to 50 words as possible.

Collective identity is the feeling of being part of a group, built on shared values, experiences, or interests. It allows people to understand who they are by how they relate to others, whether that’s through culture, social circles, or specific communities. It creates a sense of unity, connection, and common purpose.

2) How does James May's Top Toys offer a nostalgic representation of Britain?

James May's Top Toys creates a sense of nostalgia, exploring the history of British toys and their cultural impact. By looking back at iconic toys, the show taps into shared memories from past generations, sparking a sense of pride in how Britain has shaped childhood play and imagination.

3) How has new technology changed collective identity?

New technology, particularly the internet and social media, has transformed collective identity by allowing people to connect with others from all over the world, exchange ideas, and be part of online communities. This shift has made collective identity more diverse, as individuals can now come together based on shared passions and interests, not just where they live.

4) What phrase does David Gauntlett (2008) use to describe this new focus on identity? 

David Gauntlett uses the phrase “making your own media” to describe the new focus on identity. He suggests that individuals today have the tools and opportunities to create their own media, which allows them to construct and express their identities in personalised and unique ways.

5) How does the Shaun of the Dead Facebook group provide an example of Henry Jenkins' theory of interpretive communities online?

The Shaun of the Dead Facebook group is a good example of Henry Jenkins' idea of interpretive communities. It connects fans who all have a shared understanding of the film's themes, humor, and cultural references. The members interpret the movie in similar ways, which helps form a sense of community built on shared knowledge and viewpoints. The group becomes a space where people can talk about the film, share ideas, and connect over their collective experience of it.