The concept of stereotypes was advocated in mass media by
(A) Michael Foucolt
(B) Walter Lippman
(C) William Raymonds
(D) Robert Herman
Correct Ans: (B)
Explanation:
Walter Lippmann introduced the concept of stereotypes in the mass media field. In his book Public Opinion (1922), he explained how people form perceptions based not on direct experience but on simplified mental images. He called these mental shortcuts stereotypes. These images, according to him, helped individuals make sense of a complex world.
He emphasized that media plays a powerful role in shaping these images. Instead of letting people interact with the real world directly, the media constructs a pseudo-environment. People then respond to this constructed version rather than reality. For example, they respond to how media shows events, not how events actually happen.
Lippmann also pointed out that these stereotypes often stay fixed and resist change. Media constantly repeats certain portrayals. As a result, audiences begin to accept these portrayals as truth. Moreover, he warned that these stereotypes can lead to misunderstanding and prejudice.
He encouraged media thinkers to examine how media shapes opinions and maintains power structures. His work also inspired later studies on framing, agenda-setting, and media bias. In many ways, he shifted the focus from what media says to how media represents reality.
So, Lippmann did more than name stereotypes. He showed how media actively creates and spreads them. Even today, scholars refer to his insights to explain media’s role in shaping public opinion.