CJC3008

Crime and the Media (6 points)

(ARTS)

Leader: Dr Colleen Lewis

Offered:
Berwick First semester 2003 (Day)
Caulfield First semester 2003 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2003 (Day)
Caulfield First semester 2004 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2004 (Day)

Synopsis: The unit uses key criminal justice, public policy and media theories to examine the representation of crime in the media and its relationship to government policy. Attention will be given to the interaction of the media and the criminal justice system, including analyses of class and race based discrimination that informs media stereotypes, the distortion of scientific research and the symbiotic nature of the relationship between key actors in the media and criminal justice system. Other areas to be addressed include: the role of the media as public educators; true crime and the representation of crime; perceptions of criminality; fear of crime and media pressure and political responses.

Assessment: Class presentation: 10% + Class participation: 10% + Research essay (2500 words): 40% + Two hour examination: 40%

Contact Hours: 2 hours (1 lecture and 1 tutorial) per week

Prerequisites: CJC1001/1002 (These units are prerequisites ONLY if the student wishes to undertake a CJC major or minor. This unit can be taken as an elective without any prerequisites.