Mary Beth Oliver, Mary Junck Research Colloquium

Mary Junck Research Colloquium
UNC School of Journalism and Mass Communication
Jan. 26, 2012

Mary Beth Oliver
Professor, College of Communications, Penn State
Park Distinguished Visiting Professor, UNC School of Journalism and Mass Communication

"Moral Beauty and Media Entertainment"

Research in media effects has frequently focused its attention on the many harms that media entertainment can cause, such as increased aggression, heightened mistrust, or the development of unhealthy habits. In contrast, the purpose of this talk is to overview recent and ongoing research on the possible positive outcomes of media entertainment. Specifically, in this presentation, Oliver will suggest that media entertainment can provide viewers the opportunity to grapple with life meanings, to seek greater insight concerning human compassions, and to be inspired by portrayals of moral beauty. Implications of these effects for prosocial content will be considered.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Mary Junck
• Research Colloquium
• Mary Beth Oliver
• UNC
• journalism
• mass communication
• media entertainment
• moral beauty