IPHOT 5581 Media + Society
Analyzes the content, structure, and context of media in society. The class critically examines the profound influence of the image in our contemporary lives. Through analytical readings and discussions of photographs, videos, and films we will explore the numerous strategies at work within our culture that shape public opinion and personal choice in a wide variety of situations: political, social, economic, and cultural. Discussions are based on current topics that might include political and commercial campaigns, news, social networks, editorial and fashion spreads, the Internet, censorship, gender and race, war and conflict. This class is intended to look beyond the surface of images to address their influence on both individual and social identity. Discussions on readings will invite critical writing and thinking skills. This class is open to all departments.