Multinationals and Communication Systems - Armand Mattelart

Multinationals and Communication Systems: A Critical Perspective

In his groundbreaking book, "Multinationals and Communication Systems," Armand Mattelart provides a critical analysis of the role of multinational corporations in shaping the global communication landscape. Mattelart argues that multinationals have a profound impact on the way information is produced, distributed, and consumed, and that this has far-reaching implications for democracy, culture, and social justice.

The Rise of the Multinational Corporation

The rise of the multinational corporation is a relatively recent phenomenon, but it has had a transformative impact on the world economy. Multinational corporations are now the dominant players in many industries, and they control a significant share of the world's wealth. This concentration of economic power has given multinationals a great deal of influence over the global communication system.

The Impact of Multinationals on Communication

Multinationals have a number of ways to influence the global communication system. They can control the flow of information by owning media outlets, such as newspapers, television stations, and websites. They can also influence the content of information by funding research, think tanks, and educational institutions. In addition, multinationals can use their economic power to pressure governments to adopt policies that are favorable to their interests.

The Consequences of Multinational Control

The concentration of control over the global communication system in the hands of a few multinational corporations has a number of negative consequences. It can lead to a narrowing of the range of information that is available to the public, and it can make it more difficult for people to hold those in power accountable. It can also contribute to the spread of misinformation and propaganda.

The Need for Democratic Communication

Mattelart argues that the only way to counter the negative effects of multinational control over the global communication system is to create a more democratic communication system. This means giving more people access to the means of communication and ensuring that there is a diversity of voices in the media. It also means challenging the power of multinationals and demanding that they be held accountable for their actions.

Conclusion

"Multinationals and Communication Systems" is a powerful and provocative book that offers a critical perspective on the role of multinational corporations in shaping the global communication landscape. Mattelart's analysis is essential reading for anyone who is interested in understanding the challenges facing democracy and social justice in the 21st century.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in any of the following topics, then you should read "Multinationals and Communication Systems":

• The role of the media in society
• The impact of globalization on culture
• The challenges facing democracy in the 21st century
• The future of communication

This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the world we live in and how we can make it a more just and democratic place.