Recognizing that mass media--now at a stage of viewing critically its effects and responsibilities--and society at large are interdependent, this casebook reviews the many facets of the media and mass communication as they relate to both producers and consumers of messages. The 23 chapters include discussions of the media's responsibility toward ethnic minorities, especially the black community; the press and current events; films; myths about the media and about consumership; and the impacts of both popular culture and the entire counter-culture. A bibliography, lists of topics for research and discussion, and information about the contributors are provided. (JM)