Understanding media and culture

Getting Started

Because media have such a huge impact on our perceptions of the world around us, we need to consider carefully the sources of our information and the possible bias that influences the stories we consume. 

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

· Evaluate how the media resources you consume shape your views on issues of diversity in the criminal justice system.

Resources

· Book: Understanding Media and Culture: An Introduction to Mass Communication (Chapter 2)

Background Information

Most media exist to sell stories, and the stories that sell best are sensational in nature.  When media can create controversy and a sense of outrage among the members of the public, the public is most likely to follow the media, thereby increasing ad revenue for the media source.  Some of the most sensational reporting in recent years involves stories surrounding racial bias in the criminal justice system and within the public at large. 

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.

2. Read Chapter 2 of Understanding Media and Culture:  An Introduction to Mass Communication  and respond to the following:

a. How does media shape our view of racial differences in the criminal justice system?  Give examples.

3. Please defend your answer and be substantive in your response.  It is expected that this initial posting be a minimum of two paragraphs (or 200 words) in length.

4. Your initial post is due by the end of the fourth day of the workshop.

5. Read and respond to at least two of your classmates’ postings, as well as all follow-up instructor questions directed to you, and post on two different days in this discussion, by the end of the workshop.