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Full-Text Articles in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Systems Theory And Structural Functionalism, John Fisher Dec 2009

Systems Theory And Structural Functionalism, John Fisher

Dr. John R. Fisher

Although structural functionalism finds its roots much earlier than systems theory, as researchers use it today, it is based on systems theory. This book chapter sets forth an approach for using systems theory and structural functionalism as frameworks and models for research.


Mass Media Coverage Of Global Warming: An Update., John Fisher Dec 2009

Mass Media Coverage Of Global Warming: An Update., John Fisher

Dr. John R. Fisher

A consensus may no longer exist about the causes of climate change. Only last year most media and many people supported the view that climate change was caused by people’s use of fossil fuels. However, the public view of global warming appears to have changed. Much of this change in people’s attitudes came from media coverage. This was augmented by concern for the economy and the effect of global warming legislation on the economy.

While few studies exist of mass media saturation using the diffusion of innovation model, research of global warming coverage by Dispensa and Brulle (2003) and Fisher …


Tony Blair's Lecture On Public Life And The Media: Functional Applications For Business And Research, John R. Fisher, Muhaedin Bela Dec 2009

Tony Blair's Lecture On Public Life And The Media: Functional Applications For Business And Research, John R. Fisher, Muhaedin Bela

Dr. John R. Fisher

Because systems are coupled together, all behavior in society is dependent on each other. Government officials are dependent upon the media to relay policy information to the public. Similarly, the media rely on government officials to provide information their audiences want and need. Still, a certain amount of “stress” exists between government officials and the media. This presentation reports a study using systems theory and structural functionalism to analyze Tony Blair’s lecture on public life and the media. The study examined Blair’s criticism of the media which he claims has changed from objectively covering the news to blending of news …