Mediatization of politics and family in Singapore : a look into the effects of media on the private sphere of individuals

Abstract

In a matter of a few decades, the media has increasingly developed from merely a functional tool to a complex institution. Its complexities lie in its ability to function autonomously as an institution governed by resource allocation, as with any other social institutions, yet simultaneously having the ability to influence and impact other institutions. This phenomenon is theorized by the concept of mediatization. Using this key concept, a qualitative study on media content as well as its audiences’ perception, this paper investigates the effects of the media on individuals in Singapore based on the complex interplay of dependencies between three institutions, namely media, politics and family. Individual’s private sphere, within the realm of family, is seen to be one that is autonomous. Yet, existing media discourses argue that this space of autonomy is constantly being invaded by the various influences of media. This paper explores the extent to which Singapore’s television media have impact on individuals’ opinions with an analysis on a specific television drama that is locally produced.