Academic Discussion ④―社会学、特に映画と社会

Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.

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In your response, you should do the following
・Express and support your opinion.
・Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.
An effective response will contain at least 100 words.

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Professor Smith

In the realm of contemporary cinema, we frequently witness a symbiotic relationship between film narratives and the broader societal zeitgeist. While some argue that cinema is a mirror reflecting societal norms and perceptions, others posit that it plays a more active role, shaping and molding public opinion. Given this dichotomy, to what extent do you believe that cinema acts as an influential force in sculpting public perception, and can you provide instances where it either upheld or challenged prevailing societal beliefs?

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Tom

Drawing from historical precedents, cinema has undeniably played a pivotal role in both reflecting and shaping public perception. For instance, during the World War eras, films were strategically utilized for propaganda, clearly indicating cinema’s influential capacity. However, in the modern context, with the democratization of information, I opine that while cinema continues to mirror society, its power to singularly shape perception has waned, with other media forms like digital platforms playing a significant role.

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Sue

I concur with the notion that cinema holds a reflective capacity, often portraying societal intricacies and idiosyncrasies. However, its transformative influence cannot be undermined. Films like “12 Years a Slave” or “Parasite” not only spotlight societal issues but also challenge audiences to reconsider their perspectives. Thus, cinema’s role is dual: it mirrors and molds, dependent on the narrative’s intent and the audience’s reception.