JRM4903 - Journalism and the Law

Leader(s): Professor Chris Nash

Offered

Caulfield First semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit examines the ways in which the production and distribution of media and journalistic products are regulated, in the context of broader economic, political, technological and social processes. An underlying theme is a critique of the development of and contradictions among different ideas of free speech, and how these are used to promote or defend a range of communication practices, in particular historical and cultural contexts. The subject aims to develop a working knowledge of relevant areas of media law, such as defamation, copyright and contempt, with an emphasis on understanding the way the law works in practice and the policy issues which arise. A comparative approach is used to explore legal systems in different parts of the world.

Objectives

On completion of this subject students are expected:

1. to have a strong working knowledge of the legal rights and responsibilities of journalistic practice, and their ethical dimension
2. to understand the historical and political contexts in which these have rights and responsibilities have developed and are practised
3. to be able to analyse critically and deploy reflexively the principles of 'the public right to know', 'freedom of expression' and 'access to information'
4. to understand issues and debates about freedom of expression in an international and cross-cultural context.

Assessment

Minor take home exam: 30%
Research essay (2500-3000 words): 40%
Online simulation game: 30%

Contact hours

2 hour weekly seminar