Media Effects

Mass Communication and Parasocial Interaction: Observations on Intimacy at a Distance

Horton and Wohl introduced the concept of parasocial interaction, describing the one‑sided relationships audiences form with media figures that feel like real interpersonal bonds despite a lack of reciprocal communication. They argue that mass media—especially radio and television—creates an illusion of intimacy that encourages audiences to respond emotionally and socially as if the mediated persona were personally known.

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Twitter and Teargas: The Power and Fragility of Networked Protest

Twitter and Tear Gas analyzes how digital technologies and social media have transformed protest movements, giving activists unprecedented ability to mobilize large numbers quickly while also exposing critical weaknesses in sustaining long‑term organization and strategy. Tufekci argues that networked online movements possess powerful strengths but are fragile in the face of institutional counter‑measures and lack the deeper capacities of traditional movements.

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