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Special Topics in Political Science (390-0-28)

Topic

Digital Propaganda and Repression

Instructors

Yingdan Lu

Meeting Info

Frances Searle Building 2370: Mon, Wed 9:00AM - 10:20AM

Overview of class

Digital media and technologies, often considered liberation technology, have increasingly been employed by governments and non-political entities for political propaganda and repression. This course will examine the practices and implications of propaganda and repression within the digital media landscape. We will explore the role of digital media and technologies in authoritarian regimes, the common strategies and applications of digital propaganda and repression, and consider how various actors implement these tactics, along with their consequences and global impacts. Through course readings, in-class discussions, and student-led projects, students will develop a critical understanding of the interplay between digital media, politics, and civil society.

Learning Objectives

After this course, you should be able to. . .

  • Develop a critical understanding of the relationship between digital technologies and politics in democracies and autocracies.
  • Identify the common strategies and actors of digital propaganda and repression in authoritarian regimes.
  • Evaluate the consequences of digital propaganda and repression strategies.
  • Conduct an independent or group project related to the course topic and practice research skills like collecting information, writing, providing constructive feedback, and presentation.

Evaluation Method

In-class Quizzes 30% (10% ∗ 3)

Course Project 45%

  • Milestone I: Proposal workshop 5%
  • Milestone II: Proposal writeup 10%
  • Milestone III: Peer written feedback 10%
  • Milestone IV: Final project submission 20%

Participation 25%
  • Attendance and participation 10%
  • Class panelists 8%
  • Learning survey 2%
  • Midterm evaluation 5%

Class Materials (Required)

This course will be designed in three modules. There is no required textbook for this course, and readings and materials for each module are listed in the course schedule below and on Canvas.