Approaches to History (393-0-1)

Topic

Global History of Modern Propaganda

Instructors

Mian Chen

Meeting Info

Harris Hall L06: Mon, Fri 2:00PM - 4:30PM

Overview of class

This course aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the history of modern propaganda in North America, Europe, and Asia, exploring its relationship with modernity, wars, and democracy from a global perspective. Through critical analysis, students will examine the complex nature of propaganda and the challenges associated with defining it. Additionally, the course will delve into the origins, popularization, justification, and normalization of modern propaganda practices and concepts, and how they have been integrated into our daily lives. By studying the evolution of propaganda, students will be better equipped to comprehend information control in the digital age and combat misinformation and disinformation. Ultimately, the course aims to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms behind propaganda, empowering students with the tools necessary to think critically about the information they encounter.

Learning Objectives

1. Develop a working definition of propaganda and apply conceptual tools to analyze what is propaganda and what is not.
2. Identify and describe historical moments in the creation and legitimation of propaganda.
3. Compare propaganda theories and practices synchronically and diachronically.
4. Understand common patterns of propaganda across time and place.
5. Critically understand the information culture of our time. 6. Critically and historically interpret historical and contemporary materials.

Evaluation Method

Participation: 20%;
Book Review: 25%;
Source analysis: 25%;
Final presentation with bibliography: 30%

Class Attributes

Historical Studies Distro Area