Communication 121 - Intro to Media and Culture

Media play a central role in politics, economics, culture, and our everyday lives. Our key concern is to understand both the direct and subtle operations of media power in society today: How do media construct meaning? How do new communication technologies shape our most intimate and personal relationships? How and why do data-driven corporations track and monetize their users often without their consent or political accountability? This class introduces students to different media studies traditions including medium theory, political economy, representation, media effects, and audience studies that examine media as technologies, institutions, narratives, and their audiences / users.

This course is open to Freshmen, Sophomores and Juniors. Communication majors must complete three of the five introductory courses: 118, 121, 122, 125, and 140.