This up-to-date, thoughtful, and reader-friendly presentation of the mass media, media messages, and media issues helps instructors use the media to teach the media, as they explore its excitement, complexity, and impact on our lives. Widely praised for its ability to make learning interesting, Vivian excites students as they explore the ever-changing subject of mass communication. The text retains its emphasis on the challenges of media while building on its extensive coverage of media history, effects, and culture. Every chapter reflects the most current statistics, issues, and challenges facing the media today.