How do the media influence what we understand about friendship, globalization and even our own selves? How much of our media experience is shaped by the profit motive of media conglomerates? How much freedom and power do we have as members of an increasingly fragmented media audience? This book teaches students how to ask critical questions of the media, and gives them the analytical tools to answer those questions. By gaining a rich understanding of how the media play a role in society, both in giving pleasures and creating power relationships, students to become critical thinkers. Understanding the Media: Teaches the theoretical foundations and key concepts students need to get started on their own media studies Brings concepts to life with examples and case studies on everything from Harry Potter and Big Brother to the Occupy movement Shows the ‘how to’ with guided exercises and improves essay writing with a guide to the research literature Helps students take learning further with guided free online readings This is an essential guide to the how and why of understanding the media, perfect for students in media studies, sociology, cultural studies and communication studies. Companion Website now available! Visit www.sagepub.co.uk/devereux3e for a range of student and lecturer resources.