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Special Topics (390-0-73)

Topic

Media & Social Transformation

Instructors

Fatima el Issawi

Meeting Info

Northwestern Qatar Room 3-203: Tues, Su 2:30PM - 3:45PM (AST)

Overview of class

In the information society, media's power is asserted and challenged everyday. Research has demonstrated the dual role of media in supporting change, acting as both force for renewal and conformity. The course will unpack media's role as a catalyst for change in societies going through transformational processes such as revolts, social movements, and transitions to democracy with a focus on the Global South. The lectures and seminars will explore the following questions: How media relate to social and political structures? What is the role of public media and the notion of the public good? How do alternative media contribute to challenging dominant media and political discourses and cultures? What is the relationship between media, journalistic practices, and activism? Can we talk about media for development? The course will cover Issues of race, poverty, gender, inequalities, and the climate crisis. Course will explore notions such as voice, resilience, digital media and alternative practices/cultures, pluralism, agnostic media, antagonism, and negative polarization, among other important contemporary discussions. The course will use lectures, seminars and guest talks and will take case studies from international media and politics with focus on the Global South.

Registration Requirements


  • Prerequisites: None

  • Open to sophomores and above

  • Open for Cross-Registration

  • Satisfies Media and Politics Minor

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Registration is reserved for sophomore, juniors, and seniors only.