Mass media function as primary definers of public meaning outside the state.

Evidence

In contemporary societies, these ideological, cultural, and interpretative practices are the primary territory of the press and mass media. Though not formally part of the state, they play a critical function—in articulation with other institutions—in the business of popular influence via “the social production of news,” in which crime always ranks very high. PTC regarded these key institutions as “primary definers.” They provide the baseline interpretations, influence “lay” attitudes, mold the ideological climate, and are instrumental in the orchestration of political and public responses. — Hall, Stuart, Essential Essays, Volume 1, 1050

Categorization

• DEFINE: Introduces ‘primary definers’ as a named concept for media’s meaning-making role.
• XREF: connects to: State actors manufacture folk devils that the media then amplify as secondary definers