Richard Dyer described 4 functions of Lippman's definition:
- An ordering process- stereotypes serve to order an easy way to understand form and making it an essential part of making sense of the world and society. Having stereotypical knowledge may be better than having no knowledge at all.
- A short cut- the words "macho man" are a short cut to a more complex set of assumptions that reflect society's values
- A way of referring to the world- they are social constructs and as such are a type of re-presentation. Stereotypes are most often used by individuals about people which then follows on, then that piece of information must have been received from others, especially the media.
- Naturalising power- They have a hegemonic function; so the fact that women are often stereotypes as subservient to men legitimises their inferior position.
- Stereotypes are not true or false but reflect a particular set of ideological vales.
- An expression of our values and beliefs- much of the power of stereotypes exists because they appear to have the status of consensus.
