Comm 160: Overview
Texts
Bennett et al., When the Press Fails
Iyengar & McGrady, Media Politics: A Citizen's Guide
Additional readings will be available on the course website (comm160.stanford.edu). Coursework will not be used for this class.
Summary
This course examines the role of the mass media in the democratic process. We begin by considering the "public service" responsibilities of the press -- to inform and engage citizens -- and the various policy regimes for implementing these responsibilities. Second, we examine the determinants of news coverage, including market forces and the internal workings of press organizations. Third, we discuss the ways in which news programming affects the audience -- both the mass public and political elites. Fourth, we explain the design and evolution of media-based campaigns, with particular emphasis given to the strategic interplay between reporters, candidates, and voters. We also document the gradual extension of "going public" and related techniques to the policy-making arena. Finally, we assess the potential of new technologies to alter the landscape of media politics.
Undergraduate and M.A. Student Requirements
Two examinations and one paper. The exam format includes multiple choice, short answer, and essay questions. Your paper (8-10 pages, double spaced) will apply the concepts and arguments discussed in this class to analyze either some aspect of media strategy in the 2008 election or patterns of news coverage in particular media outlets. You must have an approved paper topic no later than the end of the seventh week.
Graduate Requirements
For Ph.D. students the writing requirement is more extensive: you are expected to synthesize the research evidence concerning the effects of news coverage on either public opinion or elite behavior. Ph.D. students will also complete a take-home final exam (and will not take either of the in-class exams).
Schedule
Please visit the Readings section of this site for an updated class schedule.