SYLLABUS
Unit-4. Crime: Concept and Theory, Crime and Mass Communication, Growth and Crime and role of mass Media, Cyber Crime, Mass Media and Social Awareness, Role of Mass Media in Contentment of Crime, Cultural Dynamics and Mass Media, Impact of Mass Media on Culturalization, Westernization, Modernization and Globalization.
Crime: Concept and Theory
Concept of Crime: Crime is any act or behavior that is against the law and punishable by the state. It disrupts the peace of society and threatens individuals’ safety. It includes theft, murder, cyber fraud, rape, and corruption.
Theories of Crime:
Biological Theory: Some people are born with criminal tendencies.
Psychological Theory: Criminals may have mental or emotional problems.
Sociological Theory: Crime is the result of poverty, lack of education, and broken families.
Strain Theory: When individuals can’t achieve goals through legal means, they may turn to crime.
Social Learning Theory: People learn criminal behavior by observing others.
Crime and Mass Communication
Media plays a double role in relation to crime: it informs society about crime and also influences public perception.
News channels, online platforms, and newspapers report crimes, shaping opinions and sometimes creating moral panic.
Overexposure to violent content can desensitize people or influence vulnerable minds.
Example: The Nirbhaya gang rape case (2012) received massive media coverage that led to public protests and legal reforms.
Growth and Crime and Role of Mass Media
As society grows and changes, new types of crimes emerge like cybercrime, identity theft, and drug trafficking.
Media creates awareness about new and growing forms of crime.
Role of media includes crime reporting, investigative journalism, sting operations, and influencing public policy.
Example: Tehelka’s sting operations exposed corruption in defense and politics.
Cyber Crime
Cybercrime is a crime committed using the internet or digital technologies.
Includes online fraud, hacking, cyberbullying, data theft, identity theft, phishing, etc.
India has seen a rise in cybercrimes due to increased smartphone and internet usage.
Example: The “Ola cab fake driver app scam” exposed flaws in identity verification processes.
The media spreads awareness about digital safety and government cyber laws.
Mass Media and Social Awareness
Media educates people about their rights, laws, and duties through campaigns and documentaries.
Social issues like dowry, domestic violence, child labor, and gender discrimination are highlighted.
Example: “Satyamev Jayate” (TV show by Aamir Khan) created awareness about social evils in India.
Government uses media for campaigns like “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” to spread awareness.
Role of Mass Media in Containment of Crime
Media acts as a watchdog, exposing wrongdoings and helping law enforcement.
Public support is generated through media campaigns and investigative stories.
Example: Media played a major role in reopening the Jessica Lal murder case.
TV shows like “Crime Patrol” educate people about how to stay alert and avoid crimes.
Cultural Dynamics and Mass Media
Cultural dynamics refer to the changes and movements in values, beliefs, and lifestyles in a society.
Media is a key agent in shaping and reflecting culture.
Through movies, music, TV shows, and social media, media promotes cultural values and changes them.
Example: Indian serials often show evolving gender roles and family structures.
Impact of Mass Media on Culturalization
Culturalization is the process of becoming part of a culture or promoting it.
Media strengthens cultural identity by showcasing festivals, traditions, language, and customs.
Regional channels and movies help preserve local cultures.
Example: Doordarshan’s telecast of Ramayana and Mahabharata helped in cultural unity.
Westernization, Modernization and Globalization
Westernization: Media promotes western fashion, language, food habits, and music.
Example: Indian youth imitating Hollywood stars or celebrating Valentine’s Day.
Modernization: Media supports new ideas, science, technology, and democratic thinking.
Example: Media spreading awareness about digital payments, online learning, and women's empowerment.
Globalization: Media connects people worldwide, enabling global communication and exposure.
Example: Streaming platforms like Netflix promote global content in India, influencing local taste.
Conclusion: Mass media is a powerful force in shaping society. It not only informs and educates people about crime and social issues but also influences cultural and lifestyle changes. While media can sometimes exaggerate or sensationalize issues, its role in awareness, crime prevention, and promoting modernization cannot be denied.
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