Science in the Media

This timely and accessible text shows how portrayals of science in popular mediaâincluding television movies and social mediaâinfluence public attitudes around messages from the scientific community affect the kinds of research that receive support and inform perceptions of who can become a scientist. The book builds on theories of cultivation priming framing and media models while drawing on years of content analyses national surveys and experiments. A wide variety of media genresâfrom Hollywood blockbusters and prime-time television shows to cable news channels and satirical comedy programs science documentaries and childrenâs cartoons to Facebook posts and YouTube videosâare explored with rigorous social science research and an engaging accessible style. Case studies on climate change vaccines genetically modified foods evolution space exploration and forensic DNA testing are presented alongside reflections on media stereotypes and disparities in terms of gender race and other social identities. Science in the Media illuminates how scientists and media producers can bridge gaps between the scientific community and the public foster engagement with science and promote an inclusive vision of science while also highlighting how readers themselves can become more active and critical consumers of media messages about science. Science in the Media serves as a supplemental text for courses in science communication and media studies and will be of interest to anyone concerned with publicly engaged science. . Language: English