Hypodermic/Bullet Theory

1. Hypodermic/Bullet Theory

2. Hypodermic/Bullet Theory Add to glossary: Hypodermic/Bullet Theory – messages are received directly and undiluted by audiences, injected like a hypodermic syringe, or a bullet shot from a gun. Audiences absorb these messages like sponges and are influenced by the messages that are being communicated to them. Anecdotal observations – informal and personal viewpoints as opposed to thoroughly researched study.

3. Hypodermic/Bullet Model Read the introduction to the theory on pg 228 from Heinemann Media. Using the information from what you’ve read and the video, answer these questions: What does this theory suggest audiences are like? How does the Hypodermic/Bullet Model suggest that information is communicated to and received by the audience member? What evidence was the theory based on? What were the flaws in this?

4. Read the section ‘The War of the Worlds’ on pgs 228-9 from Heinemann Media. • Using the information from what you’ve read and the video, answer these questions: • In a paragraph, summarise what the “War of the Worlds” broadcast was about. • What factors do you think may have influenced people’s panicked reaction to the radio dramatisation? The War of the Worlds

5. Read the ‘Criticisms’ section from pg 230 of Heinemann Media • Using the information from what you’ve read and the video, answer these questions: • How is this model flawed? What example is given in the passage? • What does this model disregard about the audience? Criticisms of the theory

6. Where the theory sits with today’s society The Hypodermic/Bullet Theory is no longer accepted by media theorists as a valid explanation of communication and media influence. Although the Hypodermic/Bullet Theory has been abandoned by most media theorists, it continues to influence discussion about the power of the mass media. People believe that the mass media can have a powerful effect on people and parents continue to worry about the effect of television and violent video games.