PPOL-564 POLICY, POLITICS AND THE MEDIA

Faculty:

Begala, Paul

Dionne, E J

(Fall: Dionne; Spring: Begala) Few issues are more inherently controversial than the relationship of the media to politics and policy-making. There is even dispute over what constitutes "the media." This course is organized around particular problems raised in the debate and specific media institutions. Some of the problems given particular attention are the press' coverage of presidential campaigns, the ability of media institutions to police themselves and the role of journalists in political campaigns. Attention will also be paid to how the media cover issues of war and peace - and how policymakers attempt to influence media coverage of national security.

Guests with particular expertise and experience have been invited to help lead sessions devoted to their areas of interest. The reading list includes popular and journalistic works, as well as the work of scholars. Students will be encouraged to bring their own perspectives to bear, and are strongly urged to add to the reading list and to exchange readings with each other (and their instructor). Students will be required to produce one research paper (15 to 25 pages in length) touching on a problem of their choosing in the area of media and politics. Class participation is mandatory and will be an important part of the grade. There will be a mid-term exam.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: Department approval required

Other academic years
There is information about this course number in other academic years:

• 2004-2005 Fall and Spring
• 2005-2006 Fall and Spring
• 2006-2007 Fall and Spring
• 2007-2008 Fall and Spring
• 2008-2009 Fall and Spring
• 2009-2010 Fall and Spring
• 2010-2011 Fall and Spring
• 2011-2012 Fall and Spring
• 2012-2013 Fall and Spring

More information
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