IPHOT 5390 Photography and Power
Photography and Power examines the influence and power of the image in our contemporary life. Through critical readings and deconstruction of photographs in the contexts of political, social and commercial campaigns, spreads, and monographs, we will explore how photographers, editors, and curators use the image to encourage viewers to ask questions, to shape public opinion, to make choices, to buy a product, or how to conduct their lives. This class is intended to look beyond the surface of images to address the decisions that were made when a photograph was taken, and put to use. We will look at the history of images as well as current events to understand the influence and power of images in the past and our present. Discussions on readings will invite critical writing and thinking skills. This class is open to all departments.