The Second Edition of this book provides a comprehensive overview of the ways in which social theory has attempted to theorize the importance of the media in contemporary society. Now fully revised to take account of the recent theoretical developments associated with New Media and Information Society, as well as the audience and the public sphere, Understanding Media Cultures:

Critically examines the key social theories of mass communication

Highlights the work of individual theorists including Fiske, Williams, Hall, Habermas, Jameson, McLuhan and Baudrillard.

Covers the important traditions of media analysis from feminism, cultural studies and audience research.

Now includes a discussion of recent perspectives developed by Castells, Haraway, Virilio and Schiller.

Provides a glossary of key terms in media and social theory

Retaining all the strengths of the previous edition, Understanding Media Cultures, offers a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field. It will be essential reading for students of social theory, media and cultural studies.