COMM 365: Media Theory

(1 Unit)
Prerequisite: COMM 205 or permission of instructor.
An investigation of both critical and social scientific theories that examine the mass media’s (potential) effects on audiences. Social scientific theory and research and the controversies surrounding them in the area of media “effects” are reviewed and evaluated to determine the efficacy of claims such as causal relationships between images of violence and real-world occurrences. Critical theory and research will also be investigated to determine if media create, perpetuate and sustain certain (sometimes objectionable) ideologies. Staff.