On the ‘grand narrative’ of media and mass communication theory and research: a review

Abstract

This paper offers a genealogy of the field of mass media and communication theory and research, with the purpose of distilling a grand narrative of media studies and communication science. Such a ‘story of stories’ is articulated with recurring concerns over the categories and taxonomies of the communication process, the rapid development and penetration of new information and communication technologies, and attempts by scholars around the world to respond to our increasingly complex and convergent media environment. In conclusion, an argument is developed for a vital, creative, and public way forward for the field.