Media consumption

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Media consumption refers to the process of utilizing, incorporating, or interacting with different forms of media, such as television[3], the internet[4], newspapers, and social media[2]. This concept dates back to the creation of words and pictures, evolving significantly with the progression of communication technologies. Innovations like the printing press, photography, motion picture cameras, and telecommunication devices have all shaped media consumption, making it easier and more widespread. The advent of social media and mobile devices has further transformed media consumption, making it a daily, even hourly, activity for many individuals. However, it’s not without its effects. Research suggests that media consumption can influence individuals’ behavior, perception of reality, and mental health. It can also play a pivotal role in shaping societal attitudes towards various issues. Therefore, media literacy[1], or the ability to critically analyze media messages, is considered essential in the modern world.

Terms definitions
1. media literacy. Media literacy is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in all its forms. It involves understanding the role of media in society as well as essential skills of inquiry and self-expression necessary for citizens of a democracy. Media literacy education, provided by organizations like UNESCO, UNITWIN Cooperation Programme, UNAOC, and GAPMIL, aims to equip individuals with tools and skills to critically analyze different types of media and messages. It has a profound impact on individuals, raising awareness about manipulation, propaganda, and bias in media, while empowering citizens to contribute to public discourse and make informed decisions. The field is constantly evolving, incorporating elements of social networks, big data, and artificial intelligence. It is now a global movement with varying degrees of integration into the education systems of different regions.
2. social media. Social media is a broad term encompassing a variety of digital tools and platforms that facilitate the sharing of information and the creation of virtual communities. Emerging from early systems like PLATO and ARPANET, it has evolved into modern platforms like Facebook and Twitter. These platforms offer unique features that differentiate them from traditional media, including the ability for users to generate content and engage in dialogic communication. They cater to over 100 million users globally and offer different forms of services, such as messaging apps and collaborative content creation platforms. The use of social media has far-reaching impacts on individuals, society, and businesses, influencing everything from marketing practices to political processes. However, it's also associated with ethical concerns, such as the spread of misinformation and potential addiction.
Media consumption (Wikipedia)

Media consumption or media diet is the sum of information and entertainment media taken in by an individual or group. It includes activities such as interacting with new media, reading books and magazines, watching television and film, and listening to radio. An active media consumer must have the capacity for skepticism, judgement, free thinking, questioning, and understanding. Media consumption is to maximize the interests of consumers.

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