Summary of the Semester

This is definitely one of the most, if not the most, interesting and useful classes I have taken. I think the topics discussed have been extremely beneficial and important. The one idea I will carry away from this class and remember for many years to come is Hegemony. This concept is one that has changed my perspective on many things. I remember when I took Communication 108, I had a similar experience of enlightenment when I saw the documentary discussing how media works in conjunction with the music corporations. At that time, I remember feeling betrayed and mislead. I felt much like a pawn in a large game. I had the same feelings when I learned about Hegemony. How this idea of manipulation to be better consumers is so deeply embedded into everything we see and do was so fascinating and frightening at the same time. I truly believe that hegemony is so ingrained in us that those who are perpetuating it are even unaware of their part in the cycle. For example the producers of porn may be aware of what sells and how to make a quick buck but I don't believe they are so in tune to know that they are feeding ideas that suppress women or certain races. Many people, like myself have felt uncomfortable with certain things that appear in advertisements, media, so on and so forth but have not truly understood the kind of control that was structured behind it to keep people in certain roles that benefit a more elite group of people.
I really enjoyed the documentary Pornography in everyday life. This documentary was very insightful for me. I really liked the metaphorical look women over the ages. I love seeing women who are inspirational. I am inspired when I see women who are very much in tune with their power as a woman. This documentary talked about how society used to look at women in this way. They are the mothers of the world. I wish this kind of kinship was seem amongst women today and the respect of other women and men alike would follow.
I am excited to share things I have learned here and to find more material of the same nature.