Academic courses

Academic course

Sociology of Media

Discover the powerful relationship between media, culture, politics, and society. We'll examine how media shapes our attitudes, behaviors, and norms, influencing the way our communities operate. Drawing on my background as a sociologist and a member of a local media editorial board, I'll guide you through key media theories as well as the practical challenges of running a local media portal and magazine.

Institution University of Wroclaw
Term from 2019/2020 up to 2021/2022
Language English

We will critically examine fundamental questions about the role and responsibility of media in today's world. Are the media still a "third power" standing in defense of freedom and free speech? What happens when media operate under different political regimes, and how does this affect their function? Does media bear any kind of social responsibility in how it acts? What is citizen journalism, digital activism, and what other new forms of media exist today?

In this course, you will:

  • Examine how media shapes cultural norms, public opinion, and social identities.
  • Analyze media power and representation, with a focus on local and global cases.
  • Develop critical thinking and analytical skills to assess media's influence in various sociopolitical settings.

Through theoretical frameworks and compelling case studies, you'll gain the tools to understand and engage with media as a responsible communicator and a global citizen. This course is essential for anyone seeking to make sense of our rapidly evolving information landscape.