Course Description
Explores the concept of propaganda from its origins and historical development to its examination by research scientists. We begin with understanding the definitions of propaganda and how it differs from persuasion or academic argument. Then we examine the early history of propaganda and its transition to a generally negative concept. How does today's fragmented media system and the avalanche of new and social media influence the continued use of propaganda? Have the techniques changed?
Athena Title
Political Propaganda
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in POLS 4551E
Prerequisite
POLS 1101 or POLS 1105H or POLS 1101E or POLS 1101S
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
1. Develop a clear understanding of propaganda; be able to compare and contrast propaganda with persuasive communication. 2. Discuss the origins and development of propaganda over the course of history, with an emphasis on the major points of change in technique, delivery tools, audience, or source. 3. Be able to critique a variety of theories of propaganda and determine which is the better model. 4. Deconstruct political ads, as well as other advertising, into the components of propaganda. 5. Produce research on propaganda in the form of a chapter in a propaganda textbook. 6. Produce your own political propaganda, present it, and facilitate its deconstruction.
Topical Outline
Tentative Outline: Some areas may change as the course is further developed. What is Propaganda? History of Propaganda Modern Propaganda Institutionalized Research on Propaganda and Persuasion Warfare and Propaganda Political Campaign Propaganda Propaganda and Science Learning to Analyze Propaganda How Propaganda Works: Learning to Reverse Engineer Propaganda How to Resist Propaganda
Syllabus