Media shapes our mind

The Power of Storytelling: How Media and Advertising Shape Our Identities and Perceptions

Storytelling has been a cornerstone of human communication since the dawn of time, with the ability to shape our identities, determine our behaviors, and forge our dreams. However, the stories we are told through various media channels, including books, screens, and advertising, can have a profound impact on how we view the world and perpetuate harmful stereotypes and prejudices.

Research has shown that stories repeated in our minds actually interact with our biology, with our brains needing shortcuts to simplify and organize information. This can lead to the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and prejudices, particularly against marginalized communities. The narrative we tell and are told has the potential to create and continue prejudice beliefs, often dominated by a few storytellers.

The British Film Institute found that between 2006 and 2016, only 0.5% of roles credited to actors in the UK were played by black British actors. This lack of representation can lead to self-imposed limitations on what individuals can achieve and allows negative perceptions to go unchallenged. When black people are represented, they are often subject to racialized tropes, traced back to colonialism, historic anti-blackness, and the legacy of slavery.

These stereotypes, created by white storytellers, dehumanize and erase the multiplicity of black people's existence. Examples include the "mummy" trope, famously played by Hattie McDaniel in Gone with the Wind, which was removed from HBO Max due to racist depictions. Other stereotypes include the "angry black woman," "stoic," "gangster," and "black best friend."

Colorism, a phrase coined by Alice Walker, also plays a significant role in on-screen storytelling, with lighter skin characters often being used to tick the boxes of diversity without critically engaging with anti-black bias. This perpetuates racist perceptions and constructs harmful stereotypes.

The average American spends over 11 hours a day consuming media, making it a powerful tool to challenge and change perceptions. However, it is crucial to ask whose voice is telling the story and who it is trying to represent. Storytellers must strive to give the same platform and voice to people to tell their own stories and shape their own identities.

Only by doing so can we show endless possibilities of who black people can be and what they can achieve. It is time to challenge harmful stereotypes and prejudices perpetuated by media and advertising and create a more inclusive and representative narrative that reflects the multiplicity of black people's existence.

At end this thing should be in mind that media is essential nowadays as well

Yes, media has become an integral part of our daily lives and a essential need in today's world. Here are some reasons why:

1. Information: Media provides us with information about current events, news, and happenings around the world.

2. Education: Media plays a significant role in educating people about various topics, including history, science, and culture.

3. Entertainment: Media offers various forms of entertainment, such as movies, TV shows, music, and video games.

4. Communication: Media enables us to communicate with others through social media, messaging apps, and video conferencing.

5. Connection: Media helps us connect with others who share similar interests and passions, creating online communities and forums.

6. Business: Media is essential for businesses to reach customers, promote products, and build their brand.

7. Personal growth: Media provides access to self-improvement resources, such as podcasts, blogs, and online courses.

8. Social awareness: Media raises awareness about social issues, promoting empathy and understanding.

9. Access to services: Media provides access to various services, such as online banking, shopping, and healthcare.

10. Global connectivity: Media connects us globally, bridging cultural and geographical divides.

In conclusion, media has become a vital part of our daily lives, and its impact is undeniable.