HONR 258E Television Reality
Wednesday, 2:00-4:30 (This is a time change from what was published in our
fall 2004 booklet.)
Dr. Steve Barkin, Department of Journalism
The course will examine the implications of dramatic changes in the presentation of news and "non-fiction" programming on television. There is strong evidence that the importance of traditional evening newscasts is declining; a wide range of new formats–including local programs, syndicated tabloid shows, "reality-based" competitions and programs about crime and police work, magazine shows, talk shows, and cable news–has been introduced, profoundly altering the content and presentation of electronic journalism.
The recent coverage of scandals (e.g., Michael Jackson and Martha Stewart) illustrates the continuing problem of distinguishing between news and entertainment, as well as the blurring of public and private behavior. A central question we will address is how forms of journalistic narrative influence the definition and treatment of what becomes television news. Another important issue is the contribution of talk shows, tabloid news, and celebrity-based journalism to American culture.
Tentative readings:
S. Barkin, Television Reality: Electronic Journalism in a New Era
R. Campbell, "60 Minutes" and the News
J. Twitchell, Carnival Culture
CORE–Humanities
