AS Media

Ashley Hamilton

Hypodermic Needle Theory

What is it?
The theory states that when we read, watch and listen to media, we take in all of the information they are giving us. The audience dont question or oppose the information that is given to them and gives them an immediate reaction. This supports the idea that an audience is passive.

History of the Hypodermic Needle Theory:

The theory was invented in the 1930s by media scholars. This was due to the fear of propaganda at the time, as well as media becoming more prominent.

Example:
In 1938, Orson Welles and the Mercury Theatre Group broadcasted a radio version of War of the Worlds. They interrupted the broadcast, saying that Martians were invading New Jersey. Approximately 12 million people heard the broadcast, and around 1 million people believed it. This caused chaos as people tried to flee and ration food. It suggests media producers can easily influence their audience.