COMM 330: Critical Issues in Mass Communication

Final Paper/Panel Discussion

The very designation of an issue as "critical" suggests, at the least,

(1) the effects of mass communication upon society are at stake and

(2) there is more than one way to assess these effects.

The final paper assignment attempts to draw together the material in the course about "what is" a critical issue in mass communication, and, at the same time, extend your understanding by asking you to reflect upon "what ought to be." Choose some recent story involving a critical issue in mass communication. It can come from newspaper, television, journal, radio, internet. In your paper, briefly explain why this story reflects a critical issue in mass communication (about 4 pages). Dedicate the remainder of your discussion to how the issue(s) involved in the story ought to be resolved. This will entail an involved application of traditional ethical theories to the problem/event you have chosen (about 8 pages). Use at least one teleological and one deontological ethical theory for your analysis.

Consult a reliable periodical index (e.g. INSPIRE) to find additional material. At least 3 bibliographical references must be REAL journal articles, not just op-ed pieces.

The paper should be 10-12 pages long, written to reflect that you have passed, or expect to pass, the Adv. W, and documented with an accepted style (MLA or APA). The paper is due at noon, 9 May (exam week).

For the panel discussion, be prepared to discuss your paper as a "work in progress." Use this panel discussion as an opportunity to work with the class and your professor to help sharpen your arguments.