Describe a research topic you might develop in relation to one or more of these readings. First, identify an argument that the author–Susman, DeCordova, or Anderson–makes. Then explain the research question that arises from this argument, perhaps by applying the author’s idea to an early twenty-first century star or scandal. Finally, what would your research method be? Meaning, what evidence would you look to in order to explore your research question? (For example, Susman looks at self-help books.)

QUESTION

Describe a research topic you might develop in relation to one or more of these readings. First, identify an argument that the author–Susman, DeCordova, or Anderson–makes. Then explain the research question that arises from this argument, perhaps by applying the author’s idea to an early twenty-first century star or scandal. Finally, what would your research method be? Meaning, what evidence would you look to in order to explore your research question? (For example, Susman looks at self-help books.)

200-250 words

ANSWER

Exploring Celebrity Culture in the Digital Age: Investigating the Influence of Social Media on Fame and Scandal

Introduction

This research topic aims to examine the argument put forth by the authors Susman, DeCordova, and Anderson regarding the influence of media and technology on celebrity culture. By analyzing their ideas, we can formulate a research question that applies these concepts to a contemporary star or scandal in the early twenty-first century. The focus will be on the impact of social media platforms in shaping fame and scandalous incidents. The research will employ a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative data analysis and qualitative content analysis.

Argument

Susman highlights the pervasive influence of media on shaping popular culture, particularly through the proliferation of self-help books (Fame, Celebrity &Amp; Mass Media in the Digital Age: Daniel Boorstin’s Cultural Decline, or Passport to a Parallel Universe? – ProQuest, n.d.). DeCordova explores the commodification of celebrities and the role of cinema in constructing and perpetuating celebrity images. Anderson examines the interplay between celebrities, scandals, and media coverage, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between fame and scandal.

Research Question

How has the advent of social media platforms influenced the construction of fame and the dynamics of scandalous incidents in the early twenty-first century, using a case study of a prominent celebrity?

Methodology

Quantitative Analysis

   – Conduct a survey to gather data on social media usage patterns, preferences, and interactions among a diverse sample of individuals (Thomas, 2006).

   – Analyze quantitative data to identify correlations between social media engagement and perceptions of fame, as well as the impact of scandals on public opinion.

Qualitative Content Analysis

   – Collect data from various social media platforms, such as Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, pertaining to the selected celebrity and scandalous incidents.

   – Analyze the content to identify themes, sentiments, and the audience’s response to the celebrity’s actions or scandal.

   – Perform a comparative analysis of media coverage across traditional and social media platforms to understand the differences in framing and narratives.

 Interviews and Focus Groups

   – Conduct interviews with fans, social media influencers, and industry professionals to gain insights into their perceptions of fame, celebrity culture, and the role of social media in shaping public opinion (Kim & Kim, 2022).

   – Organize focus groups to facilitate in-depth discussions on the impact of social media on the dissemination of scandals and the perception of celebrities.

Conclusion

By employing a mixed-method research approach, this study aims to explore the influence of social media on fame and scandal in the early twenty-first century. Through the analysis of quantitative data, qualitative content, and interviews, the research intends to provide a comprehensive understanding of how social media platforms have transformed the dynamics of celebrity culture, shedding light on the complex relationship between fame, scandal, and the digital age.

References

Fame, celebrity & mass media in the digital age: Daniel Boorstin’s cultural decline, or passport to a parallel universe? – ProQuest. (n.d.). https://search.proquest.com/openview/1275b12e5a05feafcda145acc4b884d9/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750 

Kim, J. H., & Kim, M. (2022). Rise of Social Media Influencers as a New Marketing Channel: Focusing on the Roles of Psychological Well-Being and Perceived Social Responsibility among Consumers. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(4), 2362. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19042362 

Thomas, D. (2006). A General Inductive Approach for Analyzing Qualitative Evaluation Data. American Journal of Evaluation, 27(2), 237–246. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098214005283748