Abstract:
The objectives of this research is to study the globalization of western media, in this case, san sara magazine (Readers Digest, Thai-language edition) by using the theory of cultural globalization and cultural imperialism as a theoretical framework. In determining which of the two theories applies more to the case of san sara, the study examines the following elements relating to the magazine: organizational structure, production processes, distribution processes, and content of the magazine. The study timeframe is from April 1996 to March 2002. Research methodologies used in this study include documentary analysis, content analysis including discourse analysis, and in-depth interviews. The research has these findings: 1) As far as capital and finance are concerned, the globalization of western media in the case of san sara reflects characteristics of the theory of cultural imperialism more than the theory of cultural globalization. Ownership of the capital and factors of production belong to a US-based transnational company. The wholly-owned Readers Digest (Thailand) Co that runs san sara enables the US mother company to seek additional revenue from local readers and owners of local merchandises that advertise in the magazine. 2) As for production processes, the globalization characteristics apparent in san sara magazine also correspond to the theory of cultural imperialism more. The power to determine the production processes, sources of content, and content patterns belong to the mother company. Most content also come from the central database that is supplied by the mother company. Content which is modified or locally written in Thailand accounts for a small and significant proportion. Advertisers that placed their advertisements in the magazine are mainly overseas transnational. However, as far as trends of content goes, there is a growing tendency to use more diverse sources, and elements that support a more diverse cultural arrangement and Thai culture. 3) With respect to distribution processes, the globalization of san sara magazine also supports the theory of cultural imperialism. The US-based mother company has the ultimate power in determining the distribution pattern, which is uniformed worldwide and very centralized in character. However, local affiliations have a certain degree of bargaining power. 4) In conclusion, the globalization of san sara magazine confirms the theory of cultural imperialism more than the theory of cultural globalization. Nevertheless, the imperialism found here is not absolute and tends to move in the direction that supports a greater cultural diversity.