Course syllabus
This course examines the relationships between gender, politics and the media. In particular, it critically analyses the role of the media in structuring and reproducing power relations in contemporary society. We will ask questions such as: how do media representations of gender become political? Do the media reinforce or subvert social roles and ideologies? What is the role of the media in gendering political and social processes? How is gender mediated? And why does this mediation become a political concern?
Students are encouraged to reflect upon theories, debates and controversies that reveal the interplay between gender, politics and the media and to apply a variety of theoretical and methodological approaches to the gendered analysis of contemporary media, politics, culture and society.
The course is broadly organised around three overlapping themes. The first, Political Theories of Gender and Media (weeks 1 – 3), focuses on some of the key theories that explain the relationship between gender, politics and the media. The second, Communicating Gender and Politics (weeks 4 – 8) explores the role of key communications systems and practices in gendering politics, political actors and policy. In the second part of the semester, we will investigate the third theme: Political Debates and Controversies (weeks 7 – 12). Here we will consider how cultural and identity politics challenge traditional political institutions and practices.
Using a variety of audio-visual material this course takes an intersectional, cross-national and comparative approach. As well as studying a variety of media (from 'old' news to new technology), every week we will engage with international examples and literature. This will allow us to understand the multiple levels on which power operates and has an impact on our daily lives.
| Convenor |
Dr Jenny Stümer Office hours: Thursday 11-12 Room 529 |
| Lectorial |
Thursday 10-11 206-315 (Arts 1, Room 315) Fridays 9-11 303-G13 (Sci Maths & Physics, Room G13) |
Week 2 Feminism(s) and the Media: Race, Class, Sexuality...
Week 3 Women, Men and Power: Gender Equality and the State
Week 4 Understanding Political Communication: ‘Femininity’ and ‘Masculinity’
Week 5 Gender Framing and Sex Stereotyping in the News
Week 6 The Gender Politics of Journalism
Week 7 Nationalism and War: The Social Role of Gender
Week 8 Policy Making: Setting a Gendered Agenda
Week 9 Gender and Politics in Popular Culture
Week 10 Political Spouses and the Media
Course summary:
| Date | Details | Due |
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