NDM: Marxism, Pluralism and Hegemony

1) Research the Ian Tomlinson case. What would the traditional, hegemonic view of the police be in a case like this? How did new and digital media create a different story? What does the police officer's subsequent aquittal suggest about the power of new and digital media?

New and digital media creates the ability for citizen journalism to challenge these views; in particular the statement from the police stated that there were efforts to "save his (Ian Tomlinson) life after he collapsed." However, video footage proves that the police's version of events was not true. From a traditional, hegemonic view, this particular police case is seen to be standard as police brutality is happening more often. New and digital media help to enforce this as it proves the police are abusing the power they have.

2) What does the author argue regarding whether hegemony is being challenged by Web 2.0?

The author argues that there is less hegemony because audiences no longer have to rely on traditional media and today audiences can easily produce texts themselves. Therefore, injustices can be challenged more easily

3) In your opinion, does new and digital media reinforce dominant hegemonic views or give the audience a platform to challenge them?

The author argues that the internet is becoming more diverse as there are more "amateur" and "professional" opinions/viewpoints available. As audiences are challenging more, there is less hegemony.