PS 318U Media, Opinion, and Voting

Course examines the interaction between the mass media, public opinion, and voting behavior in the United States. Competing theories of media effects on public opinion and voting behavior are analyzed, as are competing proposals for reforming electoral campaigns, campaign advertising, presidential debates, and other features of mass-mediated elections in order to enhance citizen participation. Key questions students will consider include the degree of responsibility that politicians, journalists, and citizens should assume for improving citizen engagement with electoral politics.