The hypodermic needle theory is one of the most famous theories. The theory suggests that the media is like a syringe that then injects its ideas and beliefs straight into the audience's head. The theory is no longer taken very seriously today however I feel that even though it was developed in the 1920s the theory still has some relevance today as recent events such as high school shootings etc. are often linked to violent computer games, films etc.
The theory basically looks into the effect the mass media has on the consumer and suggests that the media can easily influence people. It suggests that the messages in the media product go straight into a passive audience's mind and they are immediately influenced by the message.
I believe this theory was probably most relevant during World War Two when countries produced propaganda especially the Nazi party that used this to gain followers and brainwash people into thinking their polices were correct.
Personally I am in two minds about this theory as I feel that each individual perceives things differently. I personally think a person can passively be influenced by a media product however I think it is too simple to blame things just on media as I believe a persons background, culture, home life etc. has to be considered when blaming the media for things. By this I mean, when looking into this theory I found examples of crimes related to violent media and in the majority of cases the perpetrator had a bad home life or had some sort of traumatic experience that could have triggered the desire to commit a crime.
Overall I feel that the theory is party correct and relevant to this day as I believe a persons personal life linked with violent media could potentially cause someone to commit a crime such as murder. Therefore I do believe the media can potentially passively influence an audience.
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