During the lesson, I have learnt about the development of the media effect with its increasing influence and several interesting theories on how media affects the public. For instance Hypodermic needle theory, the Two-step flow theory and the Agenda-setting theory. The most impressive aspect for me is the spiral of silence. It reminds me of a social psychological phenomenon: Group polarization.
As Dr. Kim said in the lecture, when we realize that we are in a minority position, we tend to become silent. I reckon that isn't only because we don't want to speak our voice, it depends on the whole internet environment and humanity. Take me for an example, before I send out my opinion, I would think twice. Others' comments, curses, and challenges, are the things I might meet. Especially since we are the minority, these will just be more but not less. On the other hand, people who belong to the majority will be more courageous in expressing their opinions. As a chronic effect, it creates an echo chamber at last.
It is obviously harmful for our information reception. Since nowadays we mostly rely on the internet for information sources, an echo chamber eliminates the opposite voice. It causes an illusion of truth for the public. Subsequently, the majority group will generate more extreme, emotional speculation based on this illusion. If in the end there is only one voice, that voice will be regarded as the ultimate truth, no matter how absurd or unreasonable it may be.
It seems horrible but actually it is happening every day. It is really difficult for people to keep a rational view in the current Internet environment. However, as long as one more person realizes this horror, perhaps this phenomenon will one day be changed.
Finally, I would like to thank City University for giving me the opportunity to attend this lecture and Dr. Kim's professional explanation. I really learned a lot from it.