The mass media and village life : an Indian study /

Based on survey techniques and anthropological fieldwork carried out in five villages in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and West Bengal, this study deals with the role and significance of mass media (newspapers, radio, films, etc.) in the process of development in rural India. The book offers a detailed and critical review of literature on development and communication; provides findings of field surveys; and presents detailed accounts of villages studied. The study reveals that mass communiations are far less important than interpersonal sources of information in Indian villages. It further shows that the process of development follows existing patterns of caste, class, age, and sex. The authors also suggest ways that communication could be used to promote the process of development in Indian villages. This well-written book is an important contribution to the increasing knowledge about the problems of development. It should be profitable reading for researchers, students, program planners, and administrators concerned with social and economic development of rural ares. Tables, figures, references, and appendixes. Upper-division undergraduates and above. H. S. Jassal SUNY College at Cortland