Lecture on Representation and Cultural Studies

Introduction

• Main Theme: Notion of representation, primarily in cultural and media studies.
• Focus: Visual representation due to the modern cultural saturation by images.

Concept of Representation

• Common Understanding:

  • To present, image, depict, or offer a depiction of something else.
  • It suggests that something was there and is now being represented in media.

• Political Meaning:

  • Represents another entity, such as political figures representing citizens.

Representation in Media

• Role in Media Studies:

  • Representation involves giving meaning to images, texts, etc.
  • Measures the gap between true meaning and media presentation.

• Cultural Studies Viewpoint:

  • Challenges the fixed, true meaning of events or objects.
  • Representation is constitutive, meaning it is part of the event itself.

Culture and Representation

• Importance of Culture:

  • Culture is central in making sense and giving meaning to the world.
  • Shared conceptual maps allow us to understand the world collectively.

• Conceptual Maps:

  • Our mental classifications help us navigate the world.
  • These are learned culturally, not genetically.

Language and Communication

• Role of Language:

  • Concepts are systems of representation, stored through language.
  • Communication involves expressing shared conceptual maps.

• Discourse and Meaning:

  • Discourse gives meaningful sense to the world.
  • Objects and events have meaning within the context of discourse.

Media, Power, and Representation

• Media as Circulators of Meaning:

  • Media studies focus on how media circulate meanings.
  • Power dynamics influence which meanings are disseminated.

• Representation and Identity:

  • Images make identity claims, influencing viewer identification.
  • Advertising uses identity claims effectively.

Stereotypes and Power

• Stereotypes in Media:

  • Stereotypes attempt to fix identities and meanings.
  • Positive representation is challenging but necessary.

• Strategies for Change:

  • Engage with stereotypes to open up new meanings and identities.
  • Fetishism and its powerful influence need to be addressed.

Conclusion

• Ongoing Contestation of Meaning:

  • Representation is not final and always involves interpretation.
  • Power seeks to fix meanings, but cultural studies aim to keep them open.

• Importance of Openness:

  • Keeping representation open allows for new knowledge and subjectivities.