This book is a wide-ranging and engaging introduction to media and cultural studies, written by one of the leading scholars in the field. Lull discusses the key critical concepts in contemporary culture and communication, by providing a fresh account of current developments world-wide. Drawing on major streams of social and cultural theory and on ethnographic research, Lull shows how modern mass media interact with and influence ideology, consciousness, hegemony, social rules, power, meaning and culture.James Lull provocatively describes subject matter ranging from black cultural power in America's inner cities and modern popular music to the part played by satellite television in the challenge to communist authority, and the global reterritorialization of cultural identities. By emphasizing the social nature of media institutions, the indeterminate character of communications technology and symbolic texts, and the interpretative and utilitarian ambitions of audiences, Lull leads the reader on a remarkable journey through contemporary social and cultural influences. The book provides a highly readable introduction to media, communication and culture while advancing a sophisticated theoretical position.