Code of Identity and the Media

I think that mass media is often regarded as a tool or device to transmit information unchanged from one person or group to another. I think that it does serve this function, but it also helps shape society. Because so many people can be exposed to one concept or idea through mass media, it reinforces the status quo. Individuals, especially Jack, change their outward appearances to conform to what is shown through the mass media. For example, Jack is advised to gain weight, grow a beard and become more ugly to appear smarter and more of an expert in his academic field. He also changed his name for the same reasons. Essentially becoming a false or different person to appear to the masses what they perceive as a certain intelligent identity. However alarming it is to see so many characters changing their outward appearances, there is a certain understanding amongt people. The fact that it is highly accepted may be the most alarming aspect. For example when Jack runs into Eric Massingale at the store (pg 82), Eric notes that Jack looks different than when he is on campus, but brushes it off, "I get it, " as to say he understands that everyone perhaps changes to project different appearances to conform to the status quo. Which of course on a broader level, is maintained through mass media's ability to reach so many people. I think this is a running theme especially throughout the first part of the book, Murray changes to appeal to women, Babette runs stairs to change her physical body, Jack learns German because he thinks others expect him to know it, ect....