Among the various social and cultural forces present in our society, the mass media are probably the most influential in shaping public consciousness. Americans spend an average of twenty-eight hours a week watching television. They also spend an indeterminate number of hours reading periodicals, listening to the radio, and going to the movies (Gregory Mantsios, 386). These forms of entertainment promote products, moods, attitudes, beauty ideals and everything else that is considered important. The media has become a dynamic influence on our distorted perception of our bodies, minds and spirits. The constant exposure of media representations is a significant force in modern culture. Individuals are often bombarded with images and messages from media sources such as TV, billboards, and magazines that educate them about what it means to be and feel inclusive in our society. Socialization based on influential media portrayals can lead to misinformation that contributes to racism, sexism, and class oppression (Affects of Media on Society Research Paper). One of the biggest concerns about society today is that the media controls so much of our daily lives. Within this research paper, I critically examine the influence the media has had in our society and demonstrate the importance of recognizing how everyday media transmits ideologies that oppress some populations while privileging others. The media can be informative and entertaining. There are many pros and cons when it comes to deciphering the effects of mass media. It serves to alert and inform its audience about newsworthy events using the shock factor, the worst-case scenario circumstances. It also plays a key role in defining our cultural tastes, establishing our national identity, and… At the center of the paper… An Anthropology, Eighth Edition. Margaret L. Andersen and Patricia Hill Collins. Belmont: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning, 2013. 160-164. “Oversimplification and Stereotyping – CliffsNotes.” Cliff Notes. Np, nd Web. June 9, 2014. Perez, Alicia V. “Latina Women on Screen: A Realistic Representation” Feminspire. nd Web. June 9, 2014. “What Role Do Mass Media Play in Society?” The Sociology of Media. Np , nd Web. June 9, 2014"not optional - blogspot.com." Please enter the site name in italics, nd Web 2014 .