Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Productive media analysis is like an iceberg, argues Robert Ferguson. The vast bulk beneath the water is the intellectual, historical, and analytical base without which media may become superficial mechanical or glib. This text argues that the study of "race" and the media cannot be seriously undertaken engaging with theories of ideology and without awareness of contemporary theoretical work, such as approaches to Orientalism and critical discourse analysis. Drawing on examples from newspapers, film, radio, and television, Ferguson demonstrates the dose relationships between representations of "normality" and racism. Providing an overview and assessment of existing research in the area, the book is a challenge to intellectual complacency and a warning against the temptation to normalize the very term "race."

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• Introduction
• Part 1 Ideology and "Race"?
• On theories of ideolog?
• Questioning researc?
• Otherness, Eurocentrism and the representation of "race"
• Part 2 Case studies and example?
• Winfrey in crisi?
• Popular cinema and anti-racis?
• Tabloids and broadsheet?
• Racism and normalit?
• News, current affairs, documentar?
• Representations of histor?
• Unpopular popula?
• International issue?
• Paradigms for the future?

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

Ferguson divides his presentation into two sections: in the first he discusses theories of ideology, weaknesses in present and past research, "otherness" and Eurocentrism; in the second, he analyzes media presentations using case studies of radio, television, film, and newspaper stories primarily in the US and the UK. The author's premise throughout is "that we can not stand outside ideology when researching representations of 'race' in the media"; simultaneously he cautions against the "temptation to normalise the term 'race.'" Ferguson's emphatic, critical argument speaks not only to those interested in media studies, but also to social scientists across the social, economic, political, and cultural disciplines. His well-argued critiques lean heavily on the jargon and "academic-speak" of the critical community from which he comes. Readers unfamiliar with this vocabulary will appreciate the summary and/or conclusion at the end of each the 12 chapters. A "heavy" read best suited for those at the graduate level and beyond. E. J. Downes; Boston University

Author notes provided by Syndetics

Robert Ferguson, Senior Lecturer, Institute of Education, University of London.