This course is an advanced introduction to issues, concepts, and methods in media and cultural studies. Each semester the course focuses on a specific topic. Students are introduced to the major ethical theories, and through case studies, learn to reach justified ethical conclusions. The primary issues are considered, such as privacy, social justice, confidentiality deception, violence, cultural diversity, and conflict of interest. Institutional questions are emphasized throughout.
Graduate students are welcome.
They take additional discussions sessions and write a research paper. The course consists of two or three segments or topics, each of which will be examined in some depth during five to seven weeks. No knowledge of Russian or other foreign languages required. The syllabus is organized around different communication processes in social and personal relationships. We review research on various interpersonal communication strategies and their effects, the role of communication in personal relationships, and social and cultural influences on interpersonal communication.