#1 Theory Toolbox

The theoretical framework of my research project that concentrates on the rise of Internet-based publications will be media culture. People rely on the media for news and have been reading print editions of newspapers and magazines for years. As newsrooms shift their publications to the Internet and consider whether to charge for access to their Web sites, the function of the news media is changing. A small group of conglomerates are gaining ownership and control of the majority of media organizations in the United States and many others throughout the world. As a result, less attention is given to local interests and community-based news. But, with the rise of social networks and weblogs, regionally-based news is made available for the public. The theoretical framework of media culture will enable this research project to examine how the media is affected by the rise of online content, while keeping in mind the possible agenda of some publications.