Advertising, Media and Society

An exploration of advertising as an institution in American society, from the emergence of mass media to the role of influencers and adtech in the internet economy. We will learn how advertising, technology, and media industries relate to each other; how advertisements and brands communicate meaning within popular culture; and how digital advertising uses data about people's lifestyles and identities, sometimes raising concerns about privacy and discrimination. The central proposition is that understanding media and society today requires a close look at the past, present, and future of advertising.