As we are so accustomed to view the world in a binary system, our mindset is socially constructed to believe that this is the natural order of things and that this is the reality. There are always only two sides in the flow of information: the dominant (centre) and the dominated (periphery). On the basis of Straubhaar’s journal article that proposes criticism against dependency theories, humans are no longer that homogenous. In fact, the current paradigm in the development global media flow is of an interdependent relationship and operates within subordinate positions. (Straubhaar, 1991)

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Straubhaar (1991) described that there is a significant change in the role of an audience, in which from a view of a passive, dominated audience to an active audience. As transformation of culture and social institutions happen over a period of time, this certainly leads to a various dimensions of change within society. Furthermore, he asserted that audiences tend to prefer and select cultural content that is more proximate to them. However, I find this not necessarily applicable to everyone as humans are designated differently, what more living in this world full of diversity.

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The advancement of technology also contributes largely to this transition as it allows new ideas and information to flow freely around the globe. (Straubhaar, 1991) In the journal article, Straubhaar indicated the “changes of technology facilitated both an increase flow of First World television programs and an increase in national production.” The emergence of this two way communication flow elevates the interconnection of networks between countries of the East and the West. As such, this occurrence can be an opportunity to stimulate a regional and sustainable growth in the economic and political trade aspect too among all countries. He also induced that the expanding world economy along with the ascendancy of industrial capitalism is one of the constituent in shaping modern societies that are able to think critically and rationally about what to do and what to believe. Today, people are not afraid to speak out and even dare to question towards the institution if the system does not work fairly.

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Although the inequality in world economy is still apparent, the interdependence relationship between the Eastern and Western countries generates a positive outcome in aspects such as building diplomacy relation, pursuing economic integration and fostering cultural diversity.

Reference:

Straubhaar, J. D (1991) ‘Beyond Media Imperialism: Assymetrical Interdependence and Cultural Proximity’ Critical Studies in Media Communication, Vol. 8:1, pp. 39-59.