In this fully updated edition of his bestselling textbook, Paul Hodkinson shows us how the media industries shape every aspect of our lives in society. Turning to media for entertainment, communication, information and opportunities to forge identities for ourselves, we live in what he calls a 'media society'. But how might we understand the content-consumption which is so ingrained within our lives? This book, complete with current and compelling case studies throughout, will equip you to navigate the fast-moving field of media and communication studies. Providing an overview for students studying introductory media modules as well as depth for those further into their media degree, this has been a key title in the field since 2010 and remains a crucial introduction for undergraduate students. Topics updated for the new edition include: * Datafication and data capitalism * Surveillance * Algorithmic power * Platforms and platform capitalism * Digital advertising * Social media fame/celebrity