House of Dissent

Harold Innis and Canadian Media Communications Theory

In Episode 9 of the House of Dissent podcast, we delve into the captivating chapter 'Canadian Critical Communication' by Robert E. Babe and James P. Winter. This exploration uncovers the often-overlooked contributions of Harold Adams Innis to the field of scholarly media criticism in Canada. His pioneering work on the influence of communication on societies offers a profound perspective on the organization of civilizations and media bias.
We explore Innis' examination of 'monopolies of knowledge' and how shifts in communication media, from stone to papyrus, transformed power dynamics in ancient and modern societies. The conversation extends to the contemporary era, discussing the impact of the internet and social media in shaping public perception and political outcomes, illustrated by a Romanian election influenced by TikTok in 2024/25.
Touching upon related themes, we reflect on insights from Erich Fromm regarding The Sane Society and delusion that Innis referenced with regards to consumption. The episode concludes with a preview of the next instalment, which will focus on the eminent Canadian writer Marshall McLuhan.

Episode Eight: Unmasking Disney: Armand Mattelart's Cultural Critique

In Episode 8 of the House of Dissent podcast, we delve into the world of radical mass media criticism, spotlighting the impactful contributions of Belgian sociologist Armand Mattelart. With insights drawn from Sander Miller's chapter "Armand Mattelart Historicism and Mass Media," this episode uncovers the deep-seated ideologies embedded in popular media. Discover how Mattelart, alongside Ariel Dorfman, critiqued Disney's iconic character as an instrument of cultural imperialism.
Mattelart's journey from a brief stint as a secular monk to becoming a pivotal figure in media criticism is explored, alongside his critical observations on how communication systems support capitalist structures. From early revolutionary movements in Latin America to challenging American family planning policies in Chile, Mattelart's work is dissected to reveal its enduring influence on media studies.
Join us as we traverse through historical events that shaped Mattelart's philosophy, including the turbulent political climate of Chile in the 1970s and his analysis in "How to Read Donald Duck" co-authored with Dorfman revealed American expansionism. This episode is a profound exploration of how mass media serves as a conduit for ideologies, maintaining societal norms under capitalist doctrines.

Episode Seven: Unveiling Media Bias: The Radical Work of the Glasgow Media Group

Welcome to episode 7 of the House of Dissent podcast, where we delve into the impactful research of the Glasgow Media Group, a cornerstone in UK media criticism. We explore how this group challenged traditional media narratives from dissecting the Falklands War coverage to scrutinizing the portrayal of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, their work remains pivotal.
This episode also sheds light on the influence of Robert Merton, an American sociologist whose work on propaganda during World War II unexpectedly intersects with the radical media criticism of the Glasgow Media Group. His methodologies in content and response analysis have paved the way for a deeper understanding of media narratives.
Furthermore, we touch on the controversial claims of anti-Semitism within the UK Labour Party, as documented in the group’s book "Bad News for Labour." Jeremy Corbyn's leadership is scrutinized, highlighting how biased media narratives can shape political landscapes. Join us as we dive into the intricate connections between media, politics, and the pursuit for truth.

Episode Six: Habermas and the Public Sphere

Welcome to Episode 6 of the House of Dissent podcast. This episode delves into Jürgen Habermas' influential theory of the public sphere and its intersection with radical mass media criticism. We explore the evolution of public discourse from coffee houses in the 17th century to the digital age, questioning whether the internet offers a platform for liberation and dissent or simply echoes mainstream narratives. By reflecting on historical and contemporary examples, this episode challenges the power dynamics within media and highlights the courage required to use one's understanding freely. Join the conversation as we critically examine the potential for change in communication landscapes.

Episode Five: The Frankfurt School and Cultural Critique

In this episode of the House of Dissent podcast, we delve into the significant contributions of Theodor Adorno and Max Horkheimer from the Frankfurt School to the field of mass media communication research. We explore the misunderstood origins of media criticism, revealing how writers predating the Frankfurt School like Soren Kierkegaard, Karl Kraus, and Upton Sinclair contributed to early radical mass media criticism.
The episode further dissects the critiques levied by Adorno and Horkheimer in their famous work, The Dialectics of Enlightenment, which challenged the Enlightenment era’s promise of rational liberation and its unexpected role in the rise of fascism and consumer society. Discussions also cover the Frankfurt School’s critical theory as a transformative social force aiming to challenge dominant cultural narratives imposed by capitalist mass production.
Furthermore, insights from Hanno Hardt’s writings on the aesthetic dimensions of criticism and the transformative potential of art are discussed, presenting art as an individual counter-narrative against commodified mass culture. The episode sheds light on how critical theory has influenced contemporary media criticism and its role in advocating for social justice and change.

Episode Four: Unveiling the Press: Karl Marx to Ferdinand Tönnies' Radical Critiques

In this episode of the House of Dissent podcast, we delve into Chapter Three written by Slavko Splichal of Radical Mass Media Criticism: A Cultural Genealogy, as we explore the profound critiques of the press by influential thinkers like Karl Marx, Karl Bücher, and Ferdinand Tönnies. Our guest, David, a renowned academic, guides us through the historical journey of these 19th-century German intellectuals, revealing their impact on the development of mass media and its commercialization. From Marx's early journalistic endeavors to Bücher's pioneering of journalism as an academic discipline, this episode uncovers the intertwined narratives of media, power, and capitalism. Discover how Tönnies' concepts of Gemeinschaft and Gesellschaft offer insights into the societal shift driven by communication advancements. Join us as we investigate press reform, the role of public opinion, and the enduring influence of these radical ideas on modern journalism.

Episode Three: Karl Kraus: The Torchbearer of Radical Mass Media Criticism

In this episode of House of Dissent, explore the remarkable contributions of Austrian writer and satirist Karl Kraus to the genealogy of Radical Mass Media Criticism. Kraus, known for his journal, Die Fackel (The Torch), fiercely attacked the press for its complicity with capitalism, and its role in corrupting language and truth. Delve into Kraus' critiques of journalism, his opposition to World War I, and his enduring relevance in today's media landscape. Discover how his satirical approach and sharp wit exposed the ties between mass media and societal inhumanities of his time.

Episode Two: Exploring Radicalism: A Cultural Genealogy of Ideas

Welcome to the second episode of the House of Dissent podcast, where we delve into the essence of radical thought and its intersection with media. This episode explores the concept of radicalism and the significance of a cultural genealogy of ideas. The discussion traces the historical evolution of radical mass media criticism starting from the mid-19th century, emphasizing the need for a new era of critique in the digital age.
We address common misconceptions about the term 'radical,' challenging its association with extremism. The episode also examines the influence of notable thinkers like Nietzsche and Foucault on the genealogy of ideas, contributing to radical media criticism's theoretical framework. Plus, we reflect on the unique role of citizen journalism in the modern media landscape and question whether corporate control truly influences public perception. Join us as we embark on an intellectual journey, unraveling the complex history and future of radical critique.

Episode One: In The Beginning

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the podcast, "House of Dissent," where we delve into the realm of media criticism and radical ideas for social change. Our host, David Berry, introduces the concept of "radical mass media criticism," distinguishing it from traditional critiques and exploring its deep historical roots. He recounts his collaboration with John Theobald on the influential book "Radical Mass Media Criticism, A Cultural Genealogy," aiming to trace the lineage of critical media discourse.
David highlights the misunderstandings surrounding media studies, notably the erroneous associations with the Frankfurt School and the hypodermic needle theory. He acknowledges the pioneers of media criticism preceding the Frankfurt School, notably Karl Kraus, Karl Bucher, Ferdinand Tonnies, and others. The episode sets the stage for examining the evolution of media criticism across five significant historical periods, urging listeners to contribute to identifying contemporary writers who continue this critical tradition.
Join us as we explore the revolutionary implications of radical mass media criticism and its enduring impact on discourse and cultural action. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we unpack the radical elements of our research and unravel the genealogy of critical ideas.