Political Economy and the Media

3 credits · Undergraduate

This course has two broad aims: to understand how questions of political economy are depicted in the American media and to understand the political economy of the media itself. These two goals are related – understanding the ownership and business models of news organizations illuminates their framing of basic questions of political economy. Through targeted readings, discussion, and case studies, students will gain a deeper understanding of how to think critically about media coverage of political economy. Students will also explore historical examples that show how the conventions and functions of the media have changed over time. We will also read and have guest lectures by a range of experts.