Member-only story

British Television and Constructs of Race: Uncovering the Hidden Narratives

Israel Bell

·18.3k Followers· Follow

Published in Adjusting The Contrast: British Television And Constructs Of Race

4 min read · 2 weeks before

701 View Claps

43 Respond

Save

Listen

British television has long been a reflection of the society it serves. It has the power to shape our perceptions of the world, including our understanding of race. Over the years, British television has both challenged and reinforced stereotypes about race, and it has played a significant role in influencing racial attitudes.

Adjusting the contrast: British television and constructs of race

by Tim Sawyer

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3884 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	227 pages

Race and Representation on British Television

In the early days of British television, there was very little representation of people of color. The few black and Asian actors who did appear on screen were often relegated to stereotypical roles. For example, black actors were often cast as criminals or servants, while Asian actors were often cast as exotic foreigners.

Over time, the representation of race on British television has become more diverse. However, there is still a long way to go. People of color are still often underrepresented on television, and when they do appear, they are often portrayed in stereotypical ways.

The lack of diversity on British television has a number of negative consequences. It can lead to a distorted view of British society, and it can make it difficult for people of color to see themselves reflected in the media. It can also reinforce the idea that white people are the norm, and that people of color are outsiders.

The Impact of British Television on Racial Attitudes

British television has a powerful impact on racial attitudes. The images and messages that we see on television can shape our beliefs about race, and they can influence our behavior towards people of color.

For example, research has shown that watching negative portrayals of black people on television can lead to increased racial bias. Conversely, watching positive portrayals of black people on television can lead to decreased racial bias.

The media has a responsibility to portray race in a fair and accurate way. By ng so, they can help to challenge stereotypes, promote understanding, and build a more inclusive society.

British television has a complex and often contradictory relationship with race. On the one hand, it has the potential to be a powerful force for good, challenging stereotypes and promoting understanding. On the other hand, it can also be a source of negative stereotypes and racial bias.

It is important to be aware of the ways in which British television constructs race, and to challenge the stereotypes that we see on screen. By ng so, we can help to create a more inclusive and equitable society.