Which of the following is a key concept in media studies?

Genre is a key concept in media studies because it provides a framework for categorizing and analyzing various forms of media content based on shared themes, styles, and conventions. Understanding genre helps scholars and viewers alike to navigate the vast landscape of media by identifying patterns and expectations associated with different types of media texts, such as films, television shows, music, and literature.

This categorization allows for the exploration of how media genres evolve over time, how audiences engage with them, and how cultural and social contexts influence their production and reception. For instance, the analysis of genre can reveal how horror films might use conventions of suspense and fear, or how romantic comedies often incorporate elements of humor and love.

While advertising strategy, market research, and social media influence are important aspects of media studies, they focus more on specific practices or effects rather than providing a foundational understanding of media forms themselves. Genre has a broader significance in shaping content and informing audience expectations, which is why it stands out as a key concept in the field.