POL305 Power, Politics and Propaganda in the Media (8)

This subject examines the power of the mass media and their role and influence in Australia and the world in the information age. The subject provides a blueprint for understanding the modern media in various forms. We examine the relationship between corporations, journalists and government through the concept of the Fourth Estate and the propaganda model. Among the topics covered is the role of the public relations state, the rise of new media and the politics of the internet, and the battle for truth in the global media landscape.

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2022.

Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Social Work and Arts

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to explain the power and impact of media on Australian and global politics, and vice versa;
  • be able to critically evaluate the effect of changes to media policy on the Australian media and government, and accountability to the public;
  • be able to discuss the tension between traditional and new media;
  • be able to explain the the philosophy behind the Fourth Estate concept and the propaganda model; and
  • be able to critically assess government media policies.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Mainstream approaches to media politics: Realism, Liberalism and the fourth estate
  • Critical and alternative approaches to media politics: Marxism, constructivism and the propaganda model
  • The role of Government and media
  • 'Fake News' and the public relations state
  • Free speech and censorship
  • Media consolidation and convergence
  • Social trust in journalism and media
  • The politics of the Internet
  • The politics of fear and foreign interference
  • The politics of foreign news coverage
  • Election campaigns and voting behaviour

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of POL305 in Session 2 2021. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Australian media essay
20
2
Social media essay
40
3
Global media essay
40

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: June 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

Back