SCY2021

Sociology of the mass media

Cathi Lewis

8 points - 3 hours per week - Second semester- Caulfield - Prerequisites: First-year SCY sequence or equivalent - Prohibition: SCY3021

Objectives On completion of this subject students should have acquired an overview of the range of sociological perspectives used in analysing the mass media and their place in contemporary society. They are expected to develop a deeper understanding of the ownership, structure, and power of the Australian mass media in particular; an enhanced awareness of the processes involved in the 'construction' of media content such as news and advertising; an increased knowledge of basic techniques of media analysis; an enhanced and critical understanding of the relationship between the various mass media and the audiences who 'consume' media messages and interpretations of reality.

Synopsis Critical analysis of the function of the popular media in the social distribution of knowledge; mass media as legitimators of order and the status quo; media organisations and their place within structures of economic and political power. Other areas examined are news and the social construction of reality; the media and images of deviance; advertising, symbols and stereotypes; the media and women's roles, etc. The structures and components of the media and the implications for content, format and level of influence are also examined.

Assessment Research project (3500 words): 40% - Examination (2 hours): 30% - Ten short class tests (approx. 5 mins each): 30%

Recommended texts

Ward I Politics of the media Macmillan, 1995

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