81778 - History of Mass Communication (LM)

Learning outcomes

Mass communication is defined as communication reaching large numbers of people through various media, especially since the beginning of mass society. The aim of the course is to study history and development of mass communication. The main topics will be the development and growth of media from the past to the present; the role of media under various political systems and the influence of communication on national building; the relationship between media and politics within different historical environments, in order to understand the importance of media to mass communication both past and present. Particular attention will be given to several case studies to explain the role of media in the states propaganda.

Readings/Bibliography

3 books:

1) F. Anania, Storia della comunicazione di massa or L. Gorman, D. McLean, Media and society into the 21st Century

2) Walter J. Ong, Orality and Literacy. The Technologizing of the Word or M. McLuhan, The Gutenberg Galaxy: the Making of Typographic Man

Only Erasmus students:

3) D. Welch, The Third Reich. Politics and propaganda or S. Salustri, Orientare l’opinione pubblica. Mezzi di comunicazione e propaganda politica nell'Italia fascista

Only Italian students:

3) S. Salustri, Orientare l’opinione pubblica. Mezzi di comunicazione e propaganda politica nell'Italia fascista

Teaching methods

Lessons are interactive requiring the students' direct participation.

Assessment methods

A written exam. Three opened questions in English.

Students attending the classes could discuss a short Essay (3000-3500 words), in English. The essay must further develop one of the thematic issues suggested in class.

Exam results are always published on the Professor’s personal web page.

Teaching tools

Printed and audiovisual material, PPT, on line resources.

Office hours

See the website of Simona Salustri