Media and Society offers a critical exploration of how digital platforms and participatory and algorithmic cultures shape power and identity today.This third edition delves into key issues such as the interplay between user generated content and algorithmic processing, the rise of creator cultures, and the dynamic role automation plays in media industries and cultures. In this new edition you will find:A deep dive into the ongoing development of digital platforms, exploring platform capitalisms beyond Silicon Valley;A detailed exploration of how social media and their promotional and creator cultures work and represent the social world;Insights into how media are a critical site where identities are constructed, negotiated and resisted; Updated case studies on topics ranging across livestreamers, shadowbanning, automated advertising, beauty filters and more. For media and communications students to those seeking critical media literacy, this book is essential reading.