Political Communication, Public Relations and Propaganda
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| CULT2021 | Cultural, Media and Visual Studies | 2 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- CULT2021
- School
- Cultural, Media and Visual Studies
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
This module will critically engage with political communication in a broad range of dimensions, not only institutional and procedural politics and formal structures of power, but also promotional cultures, the politics of dissent and popular engagement through screen culture and social networks. It will address the historical context and the contemporary political, economic, social and cultural landscape in which political communication is produced and circulated, including public opinion as its target, the various discourses and symbolic strategies that make up its form, and their effectiveness in meeting its objectives. These aspects of political communication will be explored through specific practices from around the world. Students will be expected to maintain an interest in current events throughout the semester and to be able to discuss current and recent examples of political communication.
A single coursework assessment will replace all failed assessment components at the reassessment stage.
Target Students
Only available for International Media & Communication Studies students, Liberal Arts students and Exchange students.
Classes
- One 1-hour seminar each week for 11 weeks
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks
The School of Cultures, Languages and Area Studies operates an attendance policy. The details of this policy can be found in the student handbook on Workspace and in module handbooks.
Assessment
- 100% Coursework: Coursework - 3,000 words portfolio of written work and equivalent
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
To provide a sound knowledge and critical understanding of the different factors underlying the development of political communication, public relations and propaganda. To develop analytical and conceptual skills in writing on theoretical and substantive issues concerned with the social and political role of the mass media. To advance students through theoretical debates on how public relations and propaganda influence public opinion. To impart the knowledge required to understand the techniques and processes of modern political communication.Learning Outcomes
- To understand the historical and social development of political communication, public relations and propaganda under different political systems.
- To comprehend how media are embedded within different political, social and economic frameworks.
- To identify different kinds of public relations and propaganda strategies within democratic and authoritarian countries.
- To understand a broad range of arguments around the impact of modern public relations on democratic processes and participation.
Conveners
- Dr Jen Birks