Course Description:

Mass communication processes, structures, functions, and practices, including descriptions, explanations, and predictions of each. Review and synthesis of literature from major paradigms in the field, including administrative, critical, and cultural. Ontological, epistemological, and methodological assumptions and limitations across the field of study.

Response Paper Sample

Sample Discussion Question & Response

Please respond to following questions based on your reading of Lippman's thoughts as discussed in the study material. Please feel free to find and use additional material. 

What role does Lippmann sees the media playing in a democracy? 

Do his ideas about democracy and the role of information in it apply to contemporary times? 

Total points: 30

Reading:

It's interesting to read the article from Poynter comparing the writings of Lippmann with the issues we are looking at today as the author did.  He feels part of the role of media is to educate the population about the issues of the day.  He was concerned about things we call Transparency and Confirmation Bias in his day just as we are today.  He also had some interesting things to say regarding the ability of the news to easily report simple stories like sports scores, assassinations of world leaders, etc., but is not good at reporting some of the more subtle and complex issues.  

Final Project Reseach Proposal