166-107 Media, Politics and Society

Formerly available as 166-006. Students who have completed 166-006 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

This subject examines the ways in which news is constructed in the media, the social organisation of the media and the media as site of contested power. The media is a crucial political and social actor in an era in which information is becoming an increasingly valuable resource. We will undertake a critical analysis of television, internet and newspaper reporting in the Australian and global contexts, analysing issues including the processes by which stories come to be considered 'newsworthy', and how political and social issues are represented in the media. We will also focus on the social organisation of the media, uncovering patterns of ownership, regulation, struggle, and new communication systems. Students who complete this subject should be able to assess the influence of different interests in media construction of news; be able to critically evaluate media representations of political and social relations; and understand the media as a site of power and resistance.

• demonstrate critical thinking and analytic skills, through research and written communication;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically, both orally and in writing;

• display awareness and understanding of the social, ethical and cultural contexts of the media and of our place as researchers;

• have gained experience in using basic research tools;

• be familiar with theoretical approaches to the media.

A response paper of 1000 words 25% (due during the first half of the semester), a take-home test of 1000 words 25% (due mid-semester) and a written essay of 2000 words 50% (due during the examination period).

A subject reader will be available.