Media and Its Impact On Society

A survey of the mass media's cultural and industrial functions in society. Introduction to methods of studying how media systems developed historically and how they are evolving in the U.S. and globally, as well as how people use and make meaning with media as part of everyday life. Methods and theories to understand media's social, economic and political impact, considering media production, forms, reception, and influence. Ethical and legal implications of media including print, film, recorded music, TV, video gaming and online media. Interplay of media and gender, ethnic and minority communities.