Amusing Ourselves to Death, Chaps. 1-3

After reading the first three chapters of Amusing Ourselves to Death, what would you say is the major premise of Postman's book? Do you find yourself in agreement with it? Why or why not? Be as specific and concrete as possible in your response (such as by including examples). Please respond no latter than noon, Wednesday, Sept. 9.

10 Most E-Mailed Stories

Examine the 10 Most E-Mailed Stories on the New York Times Web site for Thursday, August 27. When you consider them as a whole, do any consistent themes or preoccupations (on the part of journalists or readers or both) emerge? What does the list suggest is the primary function of the press in America today (informing, entertaining, rumor-mongering, counseling, editorializing advertising)? How does that make you feel (optimistic, light-headed, despairing)? Your response is due -- remember, no late responses are given credit -- by noon Sunday, August 30.

Big News!

What, to your mind, was the biggest story in the media in the summer of 2009? Please clearly identify the story or coverage you think qualifies and explain why you think so in a concise paragraph.

Your response is due on Wednesday, August 26, by 5 p.m. (Sorry, but no credit will be given for late responses.)

Topic: Final Paper

Gitlin identifies by name several different ways in which we navigate the media torrent. Which identify best describes or suits you? Why? Be as specific as possible in justifying your choice of identity. Also assess how well your chosen identity allows you to stay afloat in the media torrent.

Media Torrent

From the introduction to Gitlin's book, would he agree with the professor shattering the cell phone with a hammer or be appalled by it? Or would he think it makes no difference either way? What makes you say so?

The Problem of Journalism History

What, to your mind, does Nerone identify as the cental problem with journalism history? Does the problem relate to Streitmatter's book, Mightier Than the Sword? Why or why not? Respond prior to class on Monday, Nov. 17.

Good Night, and Good Luck

This film recounts the Cold War-era confrontation between CBS newsman Edward R. Murrow and demogogic Sen. Joseph McCarthy on a series of historic TV broadcasts. Do the events the film portrays reflect the recurring traits of the news media identified by Rodger Streitmatter in his book, Mightier Than the Sword? (Refer to the last chapter for a summary list of the traits.) Are there analogous events in the history of American journalism? Do you believe such events are typical or exceptional for the press? Explain why.

Your response should take the form of a two-page essay sent to me as a Word or rtf attachment before class on Thursday, Dec. 4.