Representation Theory

- Marxism
- Feminism
-Postmodernism
- Stereotypes

Marxism (ideologies and representation)
- Hegemonic view of society - idea that there are fundamental inequalities between social groups. (e.g. rich and poor)
Ideology - a set of ideas that show a partial view of reality.

Michel Maffesoli (1985) identified the idea of 'urban tribe' where the members of small groups had similar worldwide views, dress styles and common behaviours. Decline of individualism.

David Gauntlett (2002) - argues that 'identities are not given but are constructed and negociated.' 'Identity is complicated.Everybody thunks they've got one. Artists play with the idea of identity in modern society'

Rosalind Brunt (1992) - ideologies are never simply ideas in peoples' heads but are indeed myths that we live by and which contribute to our worth'.

Laura Mulvey (1975) argues that the dominant point of vue is masculine. The female body is displayed for the male gaze to provide pleasure of the male. (Voyeurism)

John Berger 'Ways of Seeing' - 'men act and women appear.Men look at women. Women watch themselves being looked at.' 'Women are aware of being seen by a male spectator'

Stereotypes are used to enhance realism
Martin Barker (1989) - stereotypes are condemned for misrepresenting the 'real world'