Topic: Final Paper

Gitlin identifies by name several different ways in which we navigate the media torrent. Which identify best describes or suits you? Why? Be as specific as possible in justifying your choice of identity. Also assess how well your chosen identity allows you to stay afloat in the media torrent.

Media Torrent

From the introduction to Gitlin's book, would he agree with the professor shattering the cell phone with a hammer or be appalled by it? Or would he think it makes no difference either way? What makes you say so?

The Problem of Journalism History

What, to your mind, does Nerone identify as the cental problem with journalism history? Does the problem relate to Streitmatter's book, Mightier Than the Sword? Why or why not? Respond prior to class on Monday, Nov. 17.

Good Night, and Good Luck

This film recounts the Cold War-era confrontation between CBS newsman Edward R. Murrow and demogogic Sen. Joseph McCarthy on a series of historic TV broadcasts. Do the events the film portrays reflect the recurring traits of the news media identified by Rodger Streitmatter in his book, Mightier Than the Sword? (Refer to the last chapter for a summary list of the traits.) Are there analogous events in the history of American journalism? Do you believe such events are typical or exceptional for the press? Explain why.

Your response should take the form of a two-page essay sent to me as a Word or rtf attachment before class on Thursday, Dec. 4.

Mightier Than the Sword

What, in reading about the history of American journalism, surprised you the most? A particular incident? A particular personage? A particular development or trend? Briefly explain why. Please post your response prior to class Monday, Nov. 3.

Locus Novus

Under "Links," you'll find the site "Locus Novus." Please visit it. Examine one of the hybrid word-image videos posted on the site. Then respond before class on Mon., Oct. 27, to the following question: Does the work you examined contradict or confirm Keen's claim that Web 2.0 is destroying culture with its blatant amateurism and stealth corporatism? Explain your reasoning.

Web 2.0

Read the handout from the book Deep Ecology. Apply the questions it asks of technology to Web 2.0. Based on Andrew Keen's analysis and/or your own experience, does Web 2.0 meet the critetia for a "fully informed, appropriate technology"? Why or why not? Please post your response by the start of class, Thursday, Oct. 23.

Warning: You must proofread your posts. Sloppy, ungrammatical, incoherent writing is unacceptable.