examines how various forms of media influence individuals and society from a sociological perspective. From this unique standpoint the authors provide a fresh, sophisticated, in-depth analysis surrounding the role of media as it shapes social issues. The text discusses media and communication in urban, national, and global settings, as well as the power and structure of dominant mass media. A wide range of historical and current examples, along with international references for comparison, provide relevant illustrations for students. The text ends with two case studies that apply the material introduced throughout the book for a practical, real-life model to culminate students' reading.