Course content

The previous century was characterized by the political cleavages of the industrial society. But more recently, new political cleavages have emerged, volatility has increased and party identification has declined, indicating that the political landscape is changing. This course focuses on how political actors, the media, and the electorate change their strategies in accordance with these new trends. Why do two voters react differently to the same message? Are the voters more influenced by emotion than by knowledge? Which strategies of communication do political parties prefer when they are dependent upon the mass media? Has the mass media become an important political power, and how does this power work? Most important, do these changes represent a new post-industrial political culture?

Learning outcome

To give the students some insight into the role and influence of media and political symbols in the formation of public opinion by emphasizing how political actors, mass media, and the electorate behave under changing conditions.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures/group discussions. Supervision of term paper.

Form of assessment: Term paper and oral examination. The oral exam covers the term paper as well as readings. The oral exam will be used to adjust the term paper’s grade by a maximum of one grade.

If less than 6 students attend the course the two first weeeks of teaching, the course will be given as an individual study course with supervision. Please contact the departement for further information.

Compulsory assignments

• Presentation

Recommended previous knowledge

See formal requirements.

Required previous knowledge

The following two formal requirements are needed (the course is open to master students in Sociology and MKI):
1. SOS1002 or SOS3050 or the equivalent.
2. POL1001 or 60 credits in Media Studies or the equivalent.

Course materials

To be decided at the start of the course.