Written Analysis

Written Analysis

            Theories that seem to apply to my popular culture topic “How recreational drugs are portrayed in the media” is how the media creates myths regarding recreational drugs and how the media as sources of information affect us.  These two theories jumped out at me when I was reading Common Culture book.

            The theory of the media creating myths in regards to recreational drugs has corrupted society’s view of drug use. According to Treatment4Addiction.com the first films to actually depict drug use were in the 1930’s.  These anti-drug propaganda films such as Reefer Madness made vast generalizations about the dangers of recreational drug use in order to scare children into abstaining from said substances. (May, 2012)

The theory of the media as sources of information affecting us is vital on how drug use is perceived. Society places their trust in the media assuming that what they read on the internet or see on television is factual. I have come to the realization that depending on the source, the information can be bias.

Applying these theories will help me gain insight into why people believe the myths of recreational drugs and what the media gains from putting out stories regarding drug use. Is it political? Is it because a writer or reporter knew someone and the experience they endured was negative with no silver lining? What is the media’s intention? The answers will come.