Description
"Today on Oprah," intoned the TV announcer, and all over America viewers tuned in to learn, empathize, and celebrate. In this book, Kathryn Lofton investigates the Oprah phenomenon and finds in Winfrey's empire-Harpo Productions, O Magazine, and her new television network-an uncanny reflection of religion in modern society. Lofton shows that when Oprah liked, needed, or believed something, she offered her audience nothing less than spiritual revolution, reinforced by practices that fuse consumer behavior, celebrity ambition, and religious idiom. In short, Oprah Winfrey is a media messiah for a secular age. Lofton's unique approach also situates the Oprah enterprise culturally, illuminating how Winfrey reflects and continues historical patterns of American religions.
Author: Kathryn Lofton
Publisher: University of California Press
Published: 03/02/2011
Pages: 304
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.91lbs
Size: 8.95h x 6.11w x 0.74d
ISBN13: 9780520267527
ISBN10: 0520267524
BISAC Categories:
- Social Science | Sociology of Religion
- Social Science | Popular Culture
- Social Science | Media Studies
Author: Kathryn Lofton
Publisher: University of California Press
Published: 03/02/2011
Pages: 304
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.91lbs
Size: 8.95h x 6.11w x 0.74d
ISBN13: 9780520267527
ISBN10: 0520267524
BISAC Categories:
- Social Science | Sociology of Religion
- Social Science | Popular Culture
- Social Science | Media Studies
About the Author
Kathryn Lofton is the Sarai Ribicoff Associate Professor of American Studies and Religious Studies at Yale University.