Journalism and Populism/Nativism

The course deals with the relationship between contemporary journalism and what has been defined as "populist" and "nativist" twists in modern politics. A study of the political, organizational, ideological and technical foundations of contemporary journalism will form the basis of this focus. Initially, the term "populist" is examined, as is research that critically examines "populism," in order to provide students with a basic understanding of a concept that has become widely accepted but often oversimplified and misunderstood. This is followed by an examination of the role that journalism (privately owned and public service), alternative media and social media platforms play by not only representing and reporting on the populist phenomenon, but also providing space for this political movement to develop and grow. The course will also address the development of related phenomena such as disinformation, "fake news" and "hyperpartisan media".