Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2022 - CMNS 310 D100

Media and Modernity (4)

Class Number: 1233

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 7 – Dec 6, 2022: Mon, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 10, 2022
    Sat, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Two of CMNS 210, 221, 240, both with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An examination of the social and cultural influences of media on western social thought with particular reference to the emergence of the concept of modernity. This includes a review of nineteenth and early twentieth century criticisms of modernity associated with romanticism, Marxism, cultural conservatism, fascism, and non-Western social thought.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will introduce social theories to students to understand the power structures of modern and the so-called postmodern society. The course is also devoted to examining media and cultural politics in relation to “modernity” and “postmodernity” in national and transnational contexts. Schools of thought include Marxism, Neo Marxism, Cultural Studies, Feminisms, Political Economy of Communication, Postcolonialism, Social Movements, and so forth. Through different theoretical perspectives and various empirical studies, students will learn how to unpack the intertwined power structures and dynamics in our contemporary lives and imagine alternatives.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Our main goal is to critically assess the development of capitalist modern society, which entwines long-standing unequal power structures, such as patriarchy and heterosexuality. By the end of this course, students should be able to develop a holistic understanding of modernity and invigorate imaginaries of an equal and just society.

Grading

  • Class Participation and Attendance 20%
  • Mid-Term Test 25%
  • Essay 30%
  • Final Test 25%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Course readings will be provided on Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html