Answer to Question #258170 in Sociology for Pilisiwe

Question

First distinguish between pluralism and diversity, by identifying practical examples of this in South African and international media. And then address this question : Do you think we hear a multiplicity of voices in this media or only certain central voices? and why?

Answer 1

Diversity describes the existence of many groups of people within a society whereas pluralism describes a society in which diversity is accepted and supported. In a nutshell, the South African media landscape is characterized by moderate pluralism, but not necessarily diversity, as many media groups offer ‘more of the same’ rather than genuine alternatives to the dominant sources of information, news and entertainment.

Pluralist focuses on equal distribution of resources and power, this in regards it means power is distributed to many groups. This in South Africa can be associated with NGO’s, Trade Unions, Professional associations and business lobbyists which share power while South Africa’s cultural diversity is expressed in a number of ways; one of the most famous is the different cultural influence that goes into the food that people eat for example, maize meal porridge and meat, accompanied by a variety of vegetables such as cabbage, onions, beetroot, carrots, and potatoes.

We hear a multiplicity of voices only certain central voices. This is because we want to be part of the process of achieving a task or achieving a goal. We want to make a difference. We have an inborn desire to share in a deep and collective process that moves people and organizations toward a more clearly defined place making people’s lives better than where they find themselves today.