The Mass Comm Murders: Five Media Theorists Self-Destruct

by Arthur Asa Berger

The Mass Comm Murders is a novel way (both literally and figuratively) to introduce students to mass communication theory. Berger's latest comic murder mystery again features Inspector Solomon Hunter and his sidekick, Sergeant Talcott Weams, in the search for who is snuffing out a group of media theorists--though only after each, in turn, explains his or her theory of mass communications. Highlighting theories from semiotics to the spiral of silence, Berger combines theoretical discussion with a satire of academia and a parody of the mystery genre, complete with eccentric professors and international intrigue. This fun and accessible text is an ideal supplement for courses in mass communication and communication theory.

160 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2002

Reviews

[Sophia · Rating 3 out of 5]

关注点还是不要放在“惨案”的部分吧，基本像是配合教材服用的小册子，中文版的主要问题是翻译太不可了……机翻语句+低级错误太多，赌五毛钱那个“两性人”是bisexual的误译……

[Xdengg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came across someone on social media saying that academic conferences feel like a mystery novel set in a snowed-in mountain village. In the comments, one recommended this book, and I’m glad they did.

It was a great read as I didn’t want something super dense and academic, but also not just a random novel. This hit the sweet spot. Maybe it’s also because Berger’s research focuses on humor and comedy, which makes the tone light and engaging. BUT a reminder: it’s still textbook-y informative!!! Definitely not a fast-paced novel.

As someone without a background in journalism or communication but now doing some interdisciplinary work related to mass comm, this book is a solid and approachable intro to the field. It gives lots of examples of how everyday phenomena can be studied as mass comm issues and how theories are developed. And as someone just starting to dip into academia, I really enjoyed reading about the love-hate dynamics between scholars and their theories. It’s both insightful and fun.

[Dirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are interested in mass communication theories but don't want to read academic textbooks Berger's book is the place to start. Packaged in an entertaining story Berger sheds light on the main concepts and approaches in the discipline and kills a bunch of professors on the way