J 201 - Section 319

2012-02-23T21:48:00.001-08:00

Speech Response:

While watching myself present the speech, I definitely hadsome glaring mistakes. One, Iseemed to be very nervous, which took away from my speech. Before hand, I had hand motions plannedout, and I never performed them. My nervous tendencies also took away from the volume I spoke at. I seemed to speak soft at times, as ifI was unsure of my public speaking abilities. Fortunately, the best cure for nervousness is practice. Overall I was pleased with the speech,and am excited that the lessons I took away from it will help me in futureattempts.

Discussion Questions- Baughman

2012-02-19T16:54:00.000-08:00

J201- Section 319
February 16, 2012

Wounded but Not Slain, The Orderly Retreat of the American Newspaper
By: James L. Baughman

1. So the article talked about how even though radiosurpassed newspaper as the most popular mass medium, surveys repeatedlyindicated that most Americans receive their news from the newspaper. How couldthis compare to today in respect to how we get our news and what is mostpopular, or even how our parents receive their news?

2. Baughman talkedabout there is certain “rules”, or several ways in which the stories werealways to be constructed with a newspaper. Do you think we have completely goneaway from the structured type of news in social media, or are there still waysin which it is organized?

3. There are parts in the article where local competition isa point of emphasis and how it declined so steeply within a single town. Butthen, such as at our school, we have two competing papers and its almost sortof something special for us. Is it good for a town to have this, or does thedecline of local competition have good reason?

4. The article talks about how locally owned dailies couldrun into the problem of knowing their communities too well, or as he puts it“be too tied to area business and political ethics”. Is there a problem stillfor all cities, or how can you get truly unbiased reporting?

5. A complaint that some had was that the press’s enthusiasmfor explaining the news was becoming too judgemental. One Washington Postreporter went on to say, “Readers do deserve one clean shot at the facts”. Dowe get these facts today online or even in newspapers today?

6. I found the quote, “Something happened to our generationwhere we were not raised to do something that our parents did everyday” veryinteresting. What effect do you think our use social media could have on sayour kids, down the road?

7. “Could a “print culture” medium that had lived asink-on-paper in America for 300 move entirely and successfully into cyberspace?

Research Report: “Media That Stir Emotions”

2012-02-16T12:37:00.000-08:00

J201 - Section 319

February 16, 2012

"Media That Stir Emotions"

The idea of fear being desirable or even sought after is not a new one in Western culture. For years countless individuals have paid to be frightened, whether it be in the local movie theater or in one of America’s numerous theme parks, people enjoy being scared. This is undoubtedly peculiar as fear is generally labeled as a negative emotion. So why do so many people continue to pay to experience something “negative”? This is only one among several other questions addressed in the chapter “Media That Stir Emotions” in Glenn Sparks’ novel “Media Effects Research: A Basic Overview”.
Although this report is focused on his novel, Sparks’ is an educator first and an author second. Sparks received his bachelors degree from Wheaton College in 1975, his masters from Northern Illinois University in 1976, and his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1983, all in the Department of Communication. He began his teaching career in 1983 as an Assistant Professor in the School of Communication at Cleveland State University. From there, he continued his career as an educator at Purdue University as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication in 1986. Specializing in the cognitive and emotional effects of media, Sparks climbed the ladder of educational hierarchy at Purdue University, achieving the title of Associate Professor in 1990, and soon after the title of Full Professor in 1995. Finally, in 2001 Sparks was given the title of Associate Department Head of the Department of Communication at Purdue University.
Sparks’ work has been referenced in dozens of big name publications including TIME Magazine, The Boston Globe, The Chicago Tribune, The New York Times, and WebMD just to name a few. Sparks has also written two novels as well as co-authored a third. Beyond his published work, sparks has been listed among the “Top Ranked Active Researchers in Communication Studies” and has also been listed among the “Top 15 Researchers in Telecommunication in terms of published research”. It is quite apparent that Sparks’ ambition is derived from his academic background, attempting to build a reputation as a renowned scholar in his particular field by conducting research and developing theories.
When examining Sparks’ novel “Media Effects Research: A Basic Overview” and more specifically Chapter 7 “Media That Stir Emotions”, it is important to have a basic understanding of the company which published the book. Wadsworth Publishing was founded in 1956 by three young entrepreneurs, fueled by their desire to establish an alternative perspective to publishing. The company has always been committed to providing innovative, quality teaching and learning solutions to appease its customer base. Keeping one foot in the future and one in the past, Wadsworth is focused on utilizing the newest technologies while also maintaining the timeless fundamentals of publishing. The company stresses the value of author-publisher relationships, dedication to the highest standards and willingness to face challenges. Wadsworth holds market-leading positions in 18 major disciplines and is the largest higher education publisher of social and behavioral sciences and humanities. Thus, the companies targeted audience is college students, including undergraduate as well as graduate level pupils. Because of this, most of what the company publishes will be written in a sophisticated or semi-sophisticated tone, assuming the reader holds a basic level of understanding of the subject. While the novels will be written in a tone that coincides with their higher education material, the content, particularly in Sparks’ novel, will be interwoven with references to modern popular culture, keeping the information interesting and relevant for the eighteen to twenty six year old audience.
In my opinion, Sparks’ novel “Media Effects Research: A Basic Overview” particularly the seventh chapter titled “Media That Stir Emotions” is a supremely well written and interesting look into the effects of media on human emotion, particularly horror film’s lingering effects on children. After reading several online reviews it is apparent that my peers agree with me. Not only do they mention the book’s ability to cover a large amount of material efficiently, but also applaud its usage of popular culture references, keeping the novel relevant and interesting.
In conclusion, it is my opinion that this chapter and book as a whole can be interpreted quite literally, as it doesn’t try to mislead the reader or instill a certain perspective on the material that is presented. Instead, it simply states the facts, briefly reviews the researcher’s findings from those facts, sprinkles in some popular culture references and seemingly transitions into the next topic of interest. This chapter was informative, interesting and most importantly easy to read. I highly recommend this chapter to anyone hoping to learn more about media’s effect on emotions.

Word Count: 789

Works Cited

"Contact Us - About Wadsworth." Thomson Wadsworth. Cengage Learning, 2005. Web. 14 Feb. 2012. http://www.wadsworth.com/pubco/contact_about_wp.html.
Sparks, Glenn G. "Glenn Sparks." Career Account Web Pages. Purdue University. Web. 14 Feb. 2012. http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~sparks/.
Sparks, Glenn G. "Glenn Sparks Press Releases." Career Account Web Pages. Purdue University. Web. 14 Feb. 2012. http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~sparks/press.html.
Sparks, Glenn G. "Glenn Sparks Vitae Highlights." Career Account Web Pages. Purdue University. Web. 14 Feb. 2012. <http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~sparks/vitae.html>.

Speech Critiques

2012-02-11T13:05:00.000-08:00

After watching the video of my speech, I was a little surprised! I discovered the my voice is a little quieter and muffled than I expected. Next time, I will focus more on projection, enunciation and not letting the clarity or volume decrease at the end of the sentence. In terms of content, I now realize that I should have focused more on the differences between European and American Media. Also, I think that I used the term "media" too often, and I regret that I did not go into detail of what media consists of. Media is too broad of a term.

Discussion: Coda: The Advent of the Media

2012-02-09T13:51:00.000-08:00

Note* I WILL NOT BE THERE TODAY
Sorry for short notice but I am just waking up; was up all night sick.

Discussion Questions

Has international media and mass communication, which was largely influenced by the USA, Americanized other countries? In other words, has our media, pop culture, and news taken away from other people's cultures?

Reflect on how war sparked such innovations in communication. Could it be argued that those wars have furthered us as a people and without them we'd be less civilized / advanced?

How do we handle propaganda based on the 1st Amendment? Compare some of these war-time fallacies to some of the celebrity tabloids we see today chalk-full of slander and lies.

Going off of the last question, is this type of media healthy? Where can we draw the line between what's real and what's fake?

The author talks about people being "passive" but that sometimes it only takes a single, powerful work to motivate them and to give them a voice or opinion. What are some pop culture icons, such as people, movies, books, music, or even news events that you feel has given our generation their voice?

Do you agree with the author's view on how the media influences and speaks for us?

The author mentions that our lives are dictated by capitalism and democracy and that it's a healthy balance so long as the democratic side of it stays in check. What do you think this means and how does it apply inside and outside of the world of journalism?

2012-02-09T11:57:00.000-08:00

Alex Ferron- Research Report on The Unbeautiful Game

J201-Section 319

9 February, 2012

“TheUnbeautiful Game” Analysis

Duringthat particular time of the year when the All-American game offootball reigns supreme, fathers grab their favorite arm chair,children and mother gather around on the couch, and wholesome familytime is enjoyed by all. Or so it seems. In Adam Gopnik's article TheUnbeautiful Game,the darker side of corporate football is examined and revealed is amuch different view on this classic Americana. Thrust aside is theexciting, dramatized, and over-advertised football, and in its placea harsher, more realistic perspective is instilled. All whileexposing a few, less thought about concepts of football, Adam Gopnikretains a somewhat light-hearted, and fan-based view of the game in asophisticated manner.

Awriter for the TheNew Yorkersince 1986, Adam Gopnik specializes in reviews, profiles, andhumorous stories. Also an author, he has written over five books, oneof which has become a NewYork Times bestseller.The elegant journalist fancies telling stories and revealing morepersonal observations of the world in a modern, witty, andwell-spoken manner.

Born1956, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, him, his parents, and his fivesiblings soon moved to Montreal, Quebec where he was raised. Hisparents names were Irwin and Myrna Gopnik, and both worked asprofessors at McGill University. Adam received a Bachelor of Artsdegree from McGill and even was a contributer for the schoolnewspaper. He later completed schooling at the New York UniversityInstitute of Fine Arts before beginning work at TheNew Yorkerin 1986. Fast forward to 1995, Adam is sent to Paris to write aseries of essays on the life and culture of the city. When hereturned to America in 2000, book publishing company Random Housecollected the essays and turned them into a book, Paristo the Moon, whichlater became a NewYork Times bestseller.Now, Adam still resides in New York with his wife and two children.

Inmy opinion, this article is well-written, not excessively great, butgood. It starts off very strong and interesting, however, it becomesa bit dull and hard to follow near the middle. Gopnik begins writingabout multiple players and instances over the years that, withouttaking notes, is quite a “mind-full.” However, this is a minorgrievance. When writing to, I suppose what one would call, the moresocially elite readers of TheNew Yorker,it's acceptable to vocalized this intricately. He makes aninteresting metaphor to modern day media in the second page of hisarticle with the comparison between watching football live versusfrom the living room. Gopnik states how, when seen live, the entirefield is open to the viewer where inferences aren't hard to make. Ontelevision he presses that, “the drama of the game of TV lies infinding out.” This is much like any media today, where actuallybeing there and experiencing an event is far different than piecingtogether a mental image from different article's perspectives.

TheUnbeautiful Gameis a well-written, short article that gets right to the point andgives the avid sports fan a good read about America's favorite game.Gopnik shows his prowess through artfully crafted sentences,obviously meticulous research, and first hand experience. A wonderfulauthor and a great read for anyone.

WordCount: 544

WorksCited

"AdamGopnik." LeighBureau.N.p., n.d. Web. 9 Feb 2012.<http://www.leighbureau.com/speaker.asp? id=226>.

"AdamGopnik." Wikipedia.Wikipedia, 25 Jan 2012. Web. 9 Feb 2012. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adam_Gopnik>.

"Contributers:Adam Gopnik." TheNew Yorker.The New Yorker, 01 Aug 2011. Web. 9 Feb 2012. <http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/bios/adam_gopnik/search?contributorName=adam gopnik>.

Research Report: "Coda: The Advent of the Media"

2012-02-09T10:21:00.001-08:00

Paul Starr, the author of “Coda:The Advent of the Media”, is currently a professor of sociology and publicaffairs, as well as the Stuart Chair in Communications and Public Affairs atthe Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton University. Starr started his careerwithin the academic world as an associate professor at Harvard University, aposition he held from 1978-85 (Starr 1). He also served as the director of theCentury Institute, a summer program for liberal college students founded by thethink tank, Century Foundation (“Century Institute” 1). A deep involvement inpublic policy has also been a prominent feature of Starr’s professional life,with his 1984 Pulitzer prize winning book, TheSocial Transformation of American Medicine, commenting on the state ofpublic healthcare within our country, and a senior adviser position on healthpolicy being appointed to him by the Clinton administration in 1993. Finally,Starr has also been active in the world of publications, serving as co-editorof The American Prospect, a liberalmagazine in which he also co-founded in 1990, as well as founding Moving Ideas, an online resource forpublic policies, doing all of this while also publishing eight books andinnumerous articles of his own authorship (Starr 1).

“Coda: The Advent of the Media” isa chapter from his book, The Creation ofthe Media: Political Origins of Modern Communications, which was publishedin 2004 by Basic Books. Basic Books was originally an independent publisherwhen it was founded in 1952, but was bought by HarperCollins in 1969. Thisacquisition caused anxiety throughout the literary world as worries that itwould begin to simply serve large corporate interests. However, Basic Booksreturned once again to an independent position as Perseus Capital purchased itin 1997 (Carvajal 1). This publishing house has been a mainstay for scholarlywork for more than 50 years, and is faithful to exclusively printing seriousworks of nonfiction by intellectuals, academics, and journalists (“Basic BooksHome” 1). This noble publishing goal likely results in the readership for thesebooks being quite the same type of individuals, academics and intellectuals,and thus not reaching a significant swath of the population.

Thus, judging on Paul Starr’sprofessional career and the company through which it was published, “Coda: TheAdvent of the Media” is undoubtedly a credible work that can be looked to forscholarly accuracy and depth. However, this does not mean one should not becautious in investigating the ideas it puts forward. Starr’s career has beenfilled with instances that typify his clear leftward political leanings, andthe subject matter of “Coda: The Advent of the Media” is tied intimately to politicsand public policy. Therefore, in writing about political incidents that havelead to the media being shaped the way it is, one must recognize that Starrwill have a strong and deep-rooted opinion on those matters. This is neithergood nor bad, it simply must be recognized. This is not to say that the informationprovided is in anyway skewed or undermined, this book has been heralded as oneof the finest accounts of the history of media ever written, the interpretations of such historicalprogressions just must not be accepted blindly, for they most definitely have aparticular slant within them.

WorksCited

"Basic BooksHome." Web. 08 Feb. 2012.<http://www.perseusbooksgroup.com/basic/home.jsp>.

Carvajal, Doreen."HarperCollins Selling Basic Books Unit to Venture Capital Firm - New YorkTimes." The New York Times. 22 Aug. 1997. Web. 08 Feb. 2012. <http://www.nytimes.com/1997/08/22/business/harpercollins-selling-basic-books-unit-to-venture-capital-firm.html?src=pm>.

"CenturyInstitute." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Web. 08 Feb. 2012.<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Century_Institute>.

Starr, Paul."Paul Starr: Biography." Princeton University, 18 Dec. 2011. Web.<http://www.princeton.edu/~starr/starrbio.html>.

"The Unbeautiful Game" Adam Gopnik- Discussion

2012-02-08T13:37:00.000-08:00

Gopnik writes about different lenses in which to watch a football game: as a fan of the sport, as a fan of a team, as a fan of a player, etc. Can the lens in which you experience, or watch a media event, like a football game, make a difference? Is so, how? How can lenses through which a person receives their media, make an impact? Can it?

What do you think are some of the repercussions to some of the different lenses available?(For example, watching as a fan of a certain player can lead to glorifying a person; making a player a celebrity on and off the field. How is this necessarily a bad thing?)

Gopnik writes, "even in the press box, many of us aren't really football fan" (pg. 43); How do you think the perspective in which a reporter is presenting the game change the way people are effected by media? Should the perspective of the reporter, make a difference? As a reporter, which perspective should the reporter take over in presenting a story? (What if this is not the preferable perspective of the reporter, should the still adjust their lens to fit how you think they should report?)

Gopnik uses the term, "real football fan"? What makes up a real football fan? With so many different lenses how can there be such a thing anymore?

Is there a correct lens in which to watch sports? How about any piece of media?

How does the development of video games, "fantasy football teams", and other new media advances change your perspective? In your opinion are these advances for the better or worse? How so?

(There are many questions, these are just different directions a discussion of the article can lead).

2012-02-03T18:54:00.000-08:00

Online assignment #1Dwight Howard

Name and hometown:

Josh Brandau. Brookfield, Wisconsin.

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?

I am not exactly set on a distinct future career. That being said, I am not at a loss of options, or ideas. I’m considering perusing a job in law, journalism, or teaching at the high school level.

Do you consume "news"? If you do, what are your main sources?

I definitely enjoy keeping up with the news, whether it is related to sports or politics. My consumption of such news goes through many avenues. I enjoy listening to the radio, watching television, or surfing the Internet. Some of my favorite sources include: ESPN, CNN, and FOX sports radio. I believe in having a diversified consumption of news that does not focus on one perspective, but many.

What kind of music do you like?

Believing in diversification, I enjoy a vast array of different music genres. That being said, my preference tends to lean towards Rap and R&B. Still, I enjoy branching out, and listening to the radio from time to time, to change it up.

Favorite online video:

Although I enjoy many streaming online videos, I currently do not necessarily have a favorite. One commercial featuring Dwight Howard is currently something I watch often. As an NBA player, Dwight Howard has earned the nickname “Superman,” due to his insane athleticism. Here is the commercial that recently aired on ESPN:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHOUpoazkok

What recent pop culture expressions do you love? (Or find yourself using?)

I enjoy employing the term “sick,” here and there, to signify an event that is to great to describe otherwise.

Online assignment #1

2012-02-02T13:22:00.001-08:00

Online Assignment

Name and hometown:

Josh Brandau. Brookfield, Wisconsin.

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?

I am not exactly set on a distinctfuture career. That being said, Iam not at a loss of options, or ideas. I’m considering perusing a job in law, journalism, or teaching at thehigh school level.

Do you consume "news"? If you do, what are yourmain sources?

I definitely enjoy keeping up withthe news, whether it is related to sports or politics. My consumption of such news goesthrough many avenues. I enjoylistening to the radio, watching television, or surfing the Internet. Some of my favorite sources include:ESPN, CNN, and FOX sports radio. Ibelieve in having a diversified consumption of news that does not focus on oneperspective, but many.

What kind of music do you like?

Believing in diversification, I enjoya vast array of different music genres. That being said, my preference tends to lean towards Rap andR&B. Still, I enjoy branchingout, and listening to the radio from time to time, to change it up.

Favorite online video:

Although I enjoy many streamingonline videos, I currently do not necessarily have a favorite. One commercial featuring Dwight Howardis currently something I watch often. As an NBA player, Dwight Howard has earned the nickname “Superman,” dueto his insane athleticism. Here isthe commercial that recently aired on ESPN: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHOUpoazkok

What recent pop culture expressions do you love? (Or findyourself using?)

I enjoy employing the term “sick,”here and there, to signify an event that is to great to describe otherwise.

Discussion: How Martin Luther Went Viral

2012-02-02T12:35:00.000-08:00

The author relates the Reformation to the current event of the Arab Spring Revolution. In what ways did Martin Luther and the people of the Arab Spring use the powers of mass communication in order to spread the word of their cause? How are they similar? How are they different?

The author also does a comparison of the pamphlets that were produced in Martin Luther's time to the modern day Facebook and Twitter, how are these styles of mass communication similar and different? Was the reprinting of his "95 Theses" like "retweeting?" Do you think that if Facebook and Twitter were around in the times of Martin Luther and the Catholic Reformation, would the Reformation have ended differently? Would more people have followed Luther? Would the Catholic Church have banned such social networks? Would other, more extreme opinions have been formed?

Online Assignment #1

2012-02-01T21:57:00.000-08:00

Name and hometown:
Michael Bernstein. Highland Park, IL

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?
Unfortunately, I think its now time for me to give up on my aspirations to be a professional basketball player. I do really enjoy writing and journalism, but I am not certain that is the occupation that I want to have. I hope to discover something that I am very passionate about over these next four years and continue to do that as my job. Although I don't know exactly what I'd like to do, I think that I want to do a job that is more on the creative end of the spectrum verse a business job. Due to the fact that I don't know what I want to do, there is no specific person that I admire.

Do you consume "news"? If you do, what are your main sources?
I do, in fact, consume news! When I am home, I will get my news from an actual newspaper, usually, The Chicago Tribune, and on TV I will watch CNN. Another way I get news at home is from The Daily Show and The Colbert Report. I know they are not the most formal of news casters, but I find it a good way to get current events in a much less boring way. When I am at school, I will get news on my phone or computer. The sites I use are CNN and USA Today. Being able to get news on my phone is one of the main reasons I think I stay up to date on news.

What kind of music do you like?
Ranging from The Beatles to Jay-Z, I enjoy all types of music. I am very content listening to the radio and top billboard songs, but I also like small indie rock groups. I tend to choose what music I listen to more by what I'm doing at the time. For example, I won't blast house music while trying to go to sleep, but then again, I won't listen to Bon Iver when going out on a Friday night.

Favorite online video:
Happy Halloween

What recent pop culture expressions do you love? (Or find yourself using?)
Even though I don't have a Twitter account, I think it's funny to hashtag text messages. Also, since getting to school I have been using "fasho" and "swag" a lot.

Assignment #1

2012-02-01T21:44:00.000-08:00

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?

I’m considering several possible careers, along with several possible degrees. I’d really love to score a job in the video game industry as a journalist or even game designer / lead. Working at Gameinformer has been a life-long dream of mine; I’ve been subscribed to the magazine since the Super Nintendo days! Another career I’ve considered is teaching, most likely English or creative writing at the high school or college level. I’d kill for all that extra time, I’m always making music or writing towards my novel and being a professor would be an ideal job! Lastly, I’ve considered diving into politics. It’s probably something I’d like to do after teaching or joining the Peace Corps. (which is yet another possibility of mine) but it’s always been an interest of mine and I really enjoyed my time interning for the Oregon State constituent representative’s office under Governor Kitzhaber. As you can see, I’m undecided. My love for writing is all that matters at this point! My dream job would be having all of these jobs!

Do you consume “news”? If you do, what are your main sources?

I do! My diet consists of a healthy portion of CNN and BBC, along with a nibble of WikiLeaks here and there. I read Gameinformer religiously as well. I have to keep the nerd inside me fed too!

What kind of music do you like? (It could appear in lecture.)

I’m all over the place – I wouldn’t want my iPod falling into the wrong hands! I’m a First Wave scholar which means I’m here on a full ride for my rapping and poetry, and I love my fair share of hip hop accordingly (Lil Wayne, Aesop Rock, Common Market, K’naan, myself (Muhsick)) but I also have a soft spot for other sorts of music. I love folk-rock and alternative, classic rock’s great, and even some country music so long as it’s not about tractors and beer or badonkadonks (not going to bother the time looking that term up for accuracy...). I listen to a lot of classical music and film scores when writing my novel, particularly Howard Shore’s work on the Lord of the Ring’s music. Oh, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers – they belong in a category of their own! My favorite songs would have to be: Look What You've Done Uncommon Valor, Stairway to Heaven, Under the Bridge, Smorgasbord,and Concerning Hobbits & the Council of Elrond.

Favorite online video (link to it):

Haha, I’m not conceited, but I still get a kick out of watching my ASB Presidential Campaign video . . . or Rap Music Video, I should say!Muhsick For President

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)?

As an Oregonian, I’m a proud user of the term “Pop” I’m a trendsetter, not follower (for the most part). I use terms like “treated” , “prick” and “tragic, bro” to describe less than pleasant occurrences.

Schudson and the Penny Press: Discussion

2012-02-01T20:41:00.000-08:00

Schudson explains the revolution of journalism with the broad concept of the rise of the "democratic market society." What is this, and how does technology, literacy, and natural history help explain it? Agree or disagree?

Some may argue that the rise of the penny press is greatly similar to the rise of online media today. What are some similarities and differences? Does technology, literacy, and natural history help explain the expansion of online media as well?

Research Report #1- The Economist

2012-02-01T20:00:00.000-08:00

Research Report #1

It has an appealing front cover,articles printed on glossy pages, and hits the newsstands each week. What isit? Not your ordinary newspaper. Meet: TheEconomist. The Economist is a weekly newspaper that covers global newsrelated to business, politics, and technology in addition to reliable opinionsand discussion on related topics (About, par.6). The authors are known fordiscussing complicated concepts with relatively simple language. For expertsand amateurs alike, The Economistwants to inform, persuade, and challenge others. Wealthy and business-savvyprofessionals make up the majority of the target audience (LaMothe, par.2).Therefore, the articles are written for people with a lot of opinion on thesubject and only a little time to spend on it. The credibility of the articlecan be measured by its popularity. Its circulation is just over 1.4 million(LaMothe, par.4).

Set in the belief that “what iswritten is more important than who writes it,” The Economist publishes articles anonymously (About, par. 8). Theirarticles aren’t written so that the author can make a name for himself orherself. The articles are written with every motive being to produce the bestwork possible. Editors and authors work collectively on material trying to makeit as accurate and insightful as possible. Creditability, therefore, comes fromthe newspaper as a whole, not an individual writer.

On December 17^th, 2011, The Economist published the article “HowLuther Went Viral” as apart of their Christmas special. In the article, theauthor argues that the interaction between social media and social change thattakes place today is the same process that has been taking place throughouthistory. He explains that while we live in a more fast-paced society, theconcept of sharing media to create change has always existed. The authorreferenced how Martin Luther used media to spread his beliefs on a religiousreform over 500 years ago. Instead of Twitter, Facebook, and blogs, the authorargues, Luther used pamphlets, news ballads, and woodcuts to spread his wordacross social networks (How 94). I agreewith the comparisons that the author made in the article. I think the wayLuther’s pamphlets spread and became popular among the public, without mucheffort on his part, is similar to how a video goes viral on the Internet. However,I can see how some people might argue that the connections were a bit of astretch. Some believe that the powerful technology we use today isn’tcomparable to print media. Now, the process is much more invasive andinteractive. Overall, I think the bulk of his argument is valid and wellsupported. The author calls out society for our false sense of “superiority”and brings us back down to earth by highlighting how similar the past andpresent are (How 96). This article functions to give people perspective andshow that the interactions that took place over 500 years ago are just assignificant as the ones taking place in our more modern society.

WorksCited

"About Us." The Economist.The Economist Newspaper. Web. 30 Jan. 2012.

<http://www.economist.com/help/about-us>.

"How Luther Went Viral." TheEconomist. 17 Dec. 2011: 93-96. Print.

LaMothe, Ben. "The EconomistLaunches a Massive Ad Campaign." Econsultancy.

Econsultancy.com, 3July 2009. Web. 30 Jan. 2012.

<http://econsultancy.com/us/blog/4144-the-economist-launches-a-massive-ad-campaign-but-is-that-a-good-thing>.

Research Report – Michael Schudson's "Discovering The News"

2012-02-01T19:25:00.001-08:00

Research Report – Michael Schudson

Michael Schudson, the author of Discovering The News, is a Wisconsin native who grew up in Milwaukee. He received an undergraduate degree from the independent, liberal arts school Swarthmore College in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, which is affiliated with the Quaker religion. Following graduation he proceeded to earn a doctorate in sociology from Harvard University which he used to pursue a job as a professor’s assistant at the University of Chicago on 1976. By 1980 he had successfully attended prestigious Universities at all both ends of the country, when he became a part of the staff at the University of California, San Diego. Until 2009 he was a Professor of Communication and Adjunct Professor of Sociology, and in 1990 he won a MacArthur Foundation honor. He has since traveled back to the east coast where he is a dedicated colleague at Columbia University in The Journalism School.

In a review essay by James W. Carey, he states that Schudson’s work in Discovering The News is one of limited pieces that discusses the topic of the sociological history of the newspaper. He describes how this work displays the growth of human comprehension and the freedom we as Americans have with the First Amendment. Carey’s only critique is that there are so few other histories of mass media written, and with it being such a major part of our lives, it’s surprising. He also mentions that the background information and groundwork that Schudson gives is essential to anyone who sparks an interest or cares to learn the history of the American newspaper (Carey 1).

The first Chapter of Discovering The News that we were assigned to read for class gives an in-depth history of the penny press and the penny papers and how they created the principles and culture of the democratic market society. These papers laid the blueprint for modern day journalism and shaped how readers should be wary of reality, but yet believe in the actual facts presented. Schudson’s goal in this chapter was to give insight that American journalism had not, at that point, become a professional group or industry, but by the time the twentieth century rolled around, would have evolved into both.

After reading the assigned piece by Schudson, I was baffled at the story of the penny papers, especially the history that wrapped James Gordon Bennett and his New York Herald and the bitter and blunt arguments and drama that unfolded from it. I also found it very interesting how Schudson talks about how there was a time when the newspaper wasn’t strictly news, but a montage of reports and advertisements such as “family squabbles and scandals.” The most valuable piece of information I took out of the chapter was in Schudson’s conclusion where he stated “people understood their own ordinary lives to be of value and of possible interest to others; they both sought strangers as audiences or publics and avoided them to protect a private space for the self.” I believe this to be very true to today’s standards as well, with the large focus that we have on social media.

Works Cited

Carey, James W. (1982, March). “The Discovery of Objectivity.”Discovering the News: A Social History of American Newspapers. by Michael Schudson. American Journal of Sociology, Vol. 87, No. 5, pp. 1182-1188.

Online Assignment 1

2012-02-01T14:35:00.000-08:00

Name and hometown: John Abplanalp. Brookfield, WI

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?
I aspired to be a director or executive producer of a televisions series for quite some time, but decided to take an alternative route after enduring an intensive film course the other year. Although I am not pursuing the film industry anymore, I still admire many directors and their works including Alan Ball, Woody Allen, Tim Burton, and Jason Reitman.

Do you consume "news"? If you do, what are your main sources?
Yes, I consume quite a bit of news primarily through Twitter, Facebook, The New York Times and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via the internet. I will occasionally pick up a copy of the Badger Herald and The Onion from surrounding news stands in Madison.

What kind of music do you like?
I really enjoy alternative music such as The Black Keys, Youth Lagoon, and Fleet Foxes to name a few. I worked as a DJ last year on the college radio station so I've really grown to like many works from independent bands/artists who strive away from mainstream music.

Favorite online video
Ultimate Dog Tease

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)?
Personally, I really enjoyed the expressions Charlie Sheen used in his interviews last year such as, "I am not Bipolar, but Bi-winning".

Online Assignment #1

2012-01-31T18:03:00.000-08:00

Name and Hometown: Josh Schur,Deerfield, IL

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admirenow?

I definitely want to get into some sort of job thatinvolves sports, whether it is with writing or possibly business. Of course,the dream of once playing a sport as a job is long gone, but I hope my love ofsports will somehow be a main part of whatever it is that I will do. Icurrently write for the Daily Cardinal, mainly dealing with the WisconsinBasketball team. From doing pieces on the players and on the game, I admire thewriters who do this for a living, like any from ESPN, and really look up to allof their work. I love reading all the articles and staying up to date with allthat is going on in the sports world.

Do you consume "news"? If you do, what are yourmain sources?

I use a few different sources. I use Twitter alittle bit, but mostly just the internet or television. I watch Fox newssometimes, but mostly just go to Yahoo or Comcast for my main news. I do loveESPN, and follow all the sports news on there.

What kind of music do you like? (It could appear inlecture.)

I’m not too picky on the kind of music that I enjoy,but I mostly listen to Alternative or older hip-hop and rap. I don’t care toomuch for the newer popular songs, but will listen to almost anything butcountry.

Favorite online video (link to it): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBN4n1kce30Nothing is better than some Michael Jordan highlights.

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourselfusing)?

From coming to Madison, there is obviously much morea variety of where people are from. For the most part, names have already beengiven to them like “sconnies” from Wisconsin, or “coasties” from the coast. Ikeep finding myself referring to people from those areas by those names more and more for whateverreason.

Assignment 1

2012-01-31T15:32:00.001-08:00

Mary Lee Hope. Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?
I have not the slightest clue on what I want my future career to be, so for now I look up to people who have careers I find interesting. Though I don’t have a lot of direction in what I want to do in the future I do know I love to read and write; so I would love to incorporate that into my future work. What attracts me to reading and writing is the story. I love stories and the overall process of storytelling. There are many jobs which incorporate stories into their work: writers, journalists, advertisers, teachers, historians, lawyers and many others. All of the above I consider being on occasions, usually this changes daily. Steve Martin and Joss Whedon are two of my favorite contemporary storytellers, among many others.
Do you consume “news”? If you do, what are your main sources?
I wouldn't say I “consume” news. But, I glance over current events every day, and if I find something to be important or interesting I will look into it further. Cnn.com is the homepage on my Internet browser so it's my biggest news source. I also follow @TheEconomist and @nytimes on Twitter and get news from them.
What kind of music do you like?
Some of my favorite artists from my iTunes library are: Madonna, The Shins, Fantasia, and most importantly Childish Gambino.
Favorite online video:
I don't really watch a lot of online videos but I love the online chat show series Kevin Pollak has put together. His show's archives are funny and interesting interviews of great people; though they are long.
What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)?
My favorite expression to use is one that was common at my high school, “ratchet.” Ratchet is an adjective used to describe something that is out of control, not great, or generally ridiculous. Ratchet can be used in a sentence as: Eating the food at Gordon Commons is as ratchet as drinking wine from a box.

Online Assignment #1

2012-01-29T18:30:00.000-08:00

Name & Hometown: Kyle Sean Riley, Stoughton, WI

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?
My hope and goal as far as my future career is concerned is to become a sports journalist. I realize this is a highly competitive field, and one in which you must stand out in order to be successful. If my dreams were to come true, I'd end up covering the Green Bay Packers. There are so many exceptional sports journalists it's hard to pick and choose my favorites, however, Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon, hosts of ESPN's program Pardon the Interruption, are a perfect example of the kind of reporting I particularly enjoy. Both are incredibly knowledgeable yet know how to integrate their own opinions and passions into their arguments without coming off as biased.

Do you consume "news"? If you do, what are your main sources?
I think in this day and age one would almost have to go out of their way in order to avoid consuming news. While this is true, most individuals make an effort to do the opposite and remain as informed as possible. I am one of those individuals. While admittedly a large portion of my news consumption is related to sports, I also enjoy reading the local newspaper and watching the local news on a regular basis. Beyond that, I feel it's important to know what is going on in the world at large, and thus consume various international sources for news on a semi-regular basis.

What kind of music do you like? (It could appear in lecture.)
I listen to a large variety of music, but do maintain particular tastes. I love the "oldies" such as the Beatles, Rolling Stones, etc., but also enjoy newer genres, such as hip-hop and electronica. The one genre I can say I don't listen to is country. For some reason I have always disliked country music.

Favorite online video (link to it):
The Page Turner (Awesome Rube Goldberg Machine)

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)?
Merk or merked. For example "I just merked that exam dude". Basically it means to do really well or kick somethings butt.

Online Assignment 1

2012-01-29T18:17:00.001-08:00

Name and hometown: Taryn Bitterly. Rosemount, Minnesota

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now? My dream is to work in some sort of PR setting, either corporate or agency. I admire Noelle Hawton, my "professional mentor" from high school who is the Vice President of Tunheim.

Do you consume “news”? If you do, what are your main sources? At home I would read The Minneapolis Star Tribune and sometimes watch the news with my parents. At school, I read my CNN app on my phone every night before bed and check Twitter to get updated on my news.

What kind of music do you like? My two favorite bands are The Beatles and Mumford and Sons and I think Idina Menzel has the most beautiful voice out of anyone in the world. But I also love anything Glee!

Favorite online video (link to it): Daddy Long Legs very random but I just love this!

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)? Oh gosh, too many. "sucks to suck" or "hashtag" are definitely my two big ones currently.

Online Assignment #1

2012-01-29T12:47:00.000-08:00

Maddie Rish. Highland Park, IL

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?

My dream job would include being able to help people and working one-on-one with them, but I also love to write and would love to be able to incorporate writing into my job somehow. I could see myself being a wide variety of things, such as a social worker, a journalist, a writer for a column in a magazine, or some sort of therapist. While there is no one in particular that I really admire in these jobs right now, I hope to one day become one of those people.

Do you consume “news”? If you do, what are your main sources?

I definitely need to be better about staying up-to-date and educated about current events and what is going on in the world around me. At home, I usually get my news from the television. However, when I'm at school, almost all my news comes from the internet--mainly CNN. I also get a lot of my information from Facebook--mostly through articles that people share.

What kind of music do you like? (It could appear in lecture.)

My favorite genre of music is electronic. I love house music and dubstep more than anything else, but I also love indie rock bands and jam bands. One of my favorite things to do is to attend music festivals with a bunch of my friends.

Favorite online video (link to it): creepy crazy music video by Skrillex, but one of my favorites nonetheless First of the Year

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)?

Unfortunately, I've fallen victim to the abbreviation epidemic that has taken over Madison. I wish I could stop saying things like probs, totes, and def...but I can't.

Online Assignment #1

2012-01-28T13:52:00.000-08:00

MonicaWilson. Plymouth, MN

Possible future job? Anybody in thatjob you really admire now?

I see myselfworking in either public relations or advertising when I’m older. I think getting experience in the field willhelp me to gain a better understanding of which better suits me. I don’t have a particular person that Iadmire but I have always liked Carmichael Lynch’s advertisements.

Do you consume “news”? If you do, whatare your main sources?

I use social media to stay in touchwith what is going on in the world. I check Twitter multiple times a day. Ifollow several accounts including the NY Times and Fox News. I log intoFacebook at least once a day as well. Although I’m not proud of it, I sometimesread People magazine or watch E! News to catch up on the latest Hollywoodgossip.

What kind of music do you like? (Itcould appear in lecture.)

I can listen to almost anything besidesheavy metal. Country music, however, is by far my favorite. Eric Church, JasonAldean, and Keith Urban to name a few.

Favorite online video (link to it):

Beauty Queen

What recent pop culture expression doyou love (or find yourself using)?

I had never heard the phrase until I got to Madison, but Ifind myself referring to people who lived on the West or East coast as“coasties.”

Online Assignment #1

2012-01-27T14:55:00.000-08:00

Name & Hometown: Ashley Barrett Cary, Illinois

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?

Well, I am not exactly sure yet of what I want in a career. Some possibilities include Broadcast Journalism or potentially writing for a magazine. I would also be interested in the Advertising/Marketing side of Journalism. I admire Ann Shoket, who is the Editor in Chief of Seventeen Magazine. She was what inspired me to potentially write for a magazine one day. When I was younger and read Seventeen, I was always intrigued by her column that always encouraged the younger readers to follow their dreams of writing and to pursue the career that they desire.

Do you consume “news”? If you do, what are your main sources?

I consume news mostly online through Facebook, Twitter and Yahoo! News. I also like to consume news through television, such as NBC and CNN, and also entertainment news through the E! Channel.

What kind of music do you like? (It could appear in lecture.)

I like almost any kind of music! The Beatles, John Mellencamp, Pearl Jam, Lady Gaga, Florence and the Machine, Ke$ha (embarrassing I know), you name it. Depends on my mood. I also have performed in a bunch of musicals, so sometimes I download those to my iPod too.

Favorite online video (link to it):

The Hunger Games Official Trailer

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)?

I love hashtagging. I know it only works on Twitter, but my friends and I will say "hashtag" before we say certain phrases in real life because we like to be annoying like that. I hope people don't take us seriously...

Assignment 1

2012-01-27T10:43:00.000-08:00

Lindsey Wilson - Green Bay, WI

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?

I am probably the most indecisive person in the world and I find this question impossible to answer because I change my idea of what I would like to do everyday. I would love to write, and I was very involved with my high school newspaper and creative writing classes. I admire any novelist, and my uncle who is a librarian in Green Bay. Ideally I'd like to do freelance journalism where I would be able to travel, while doing my own creative writing on the side.

Do you consume “news”? If you do, what are your main sources?

Here in Madison I rely on online news or if I can pick up a copy of the Wisconsin State Journal I do that too. At home in Green Bay I read The Green Bay Press-Gazette or listen to the radio while driving. Facebook and Yahoo News also play a part because I am frequently browsing those pages.

What kind of music do you like? (It could appear in lecture.)

I generally just listen to oldies and indie music, but my music library consists of everything from country to rap to screamo. The Beatles, The Shins, Simon and Garfunkle, MCR and Blink 182 are my top five favorite bands, but I also have a deep love for Irish punk and folk music such as The Dropkick Murphys and Gaelic Storm.

Favorite online video (link to it):
The Mysterious Ticking Noise

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)?

With my friends we half obsessed over how people began shorting words such as "probably" to "probs" and "maybe" to "mabs." Over the course of the last year we've taken it upon ourselves to shorten words that really don't need to be/can't be shortened or just don't make sense.

2012-01-26T15:52:00.000-08:00

Name and Hometown: Megan Thiele from Delavan, WI.

Possible future job?Anybody in that job you really admire now? I want to do graphicdesign/advertising work for either organic food or sports equipment companies.Then again, I also want to be a sports attorney. I really admire Bob Mitchell,a sports attorney, who was named one of the most influential sports attorneysin 2010.

Do you consume“news”? If you do, what are your main sources? I do, at least a few times aweek. I try to check the NY times on adaily basis. I’ll admit, most of my newscomes from twitter. You can followeverybody!

What kind of music doyou like? (It could appear in lecture.) I like a lot of chill,easy-listening types of music. Michael Buble, Eric Hutchinson, The Format, TheStarting Line, Dave Matthews Band, Mumford & Sons, The Postal Service, Iron& Wine, etc. Then again, I’m also a big fan of anything from the 60’s,70’s, and 80’s. I guess I like a bit of everything.

Favorite online video(link to it): I have a borderline unhealthy hatred for Lebron James

What recent popculture expression do you love (or find yourself using)? I find myselfusing the expression “Sucks to suck” and “Sorry I’m not sorry” far toofrequently. Maybe I need to stay off of twitter for a while… I’m also a hugeDenver Bronco’s fan so I’ll use some form of “Tebow-ing” daily.

Assignment One

2012-01-26T15:37:00.000-08:00

Name and hometown: Holly Licht from Brodhead, WI.

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now? I am a Political Science major, so in the future I hope to work in the legislature, a government agency, or possibly become a lawyer. I currently work for the Wisconsin State Senate and I admire all the leaders that I work with everyday. On Wisconsin!

Do you consume "news"? If you do, what are your main sources? I consume a large part of my news while I'm at work. I usually read The New York Times and the State Journal. I also get a large part of my news online from The New York Times and also Yahoo.

What kind of music do you like?I like pretty much anything. My iTunes consists of everything from Nicki Manaj to to the Beatles. I also love country!

Favorite online video? Super Bass-Sophia Grace

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)? I don't know how "popular" this is, but I catch myself say "heard that" ALL the time; I'm starting to get a little annoyed with myself....

2012-01-26T13:35:00.000-08:00

Name and hometown: Emily Erickson from Wayzata, MN

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now? I change my mind about what job I want every single day. Anything from an event planner to PR to a newscaster. Erin Andrews, here I come?

Do you consume "news"? If you do, what are your main sources? At home, I read the Minneapolis Star Tribune when I'm eating my breakfast. At school, I am slightly too obsessed with Twitter. I follow the New York Times and others. Its actually pretty amazing how much you can find out from Twitter..

What kind of music do you like? ALL music. I am in love with Dave Matthews Band, Wiz Khalifa, Atmosphere, and you can't go wrong with Biggie. Probably not the best choices (besides DMB) to play during lecture. For great music, everyone should definitely check out Minnetrapolis :)

Favorite online video? Young boy showing off his hip-hop skills

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)? Swag. I still have yet to say it without laughing however...

2012-01-26T12:58:00.001-08:00

Alex Ferron hailing from Wrightstown, WI

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?--- I'd really like to be a Pokemon Master someday. I know it would certainly be a tough career path, catching 151 Pokemon isn't easy in anyone's book. With hard work, however, I know I can be the greatest! I really admire Prof. Oak for his mad Pokemon knowledge and Brock is a great trainer and breeder. Misty is good too but nobody can compare to Ash Ketchum, he's my idol hands down. Gary Oak sucks. Also, a being a clinical psychologist or a musician would be cool.

Do you consume “news”? If you do, what are your mainsources?--- I do consume news! I mostly use Reddit for r/politics or r/worldnews. I check various other news sources and read the paper from time to time as well.

What kind of music do you like? (It could appear inlecture.)--- I love almost all kinds of music! The Beatles still remain the greatest band of all time but other favorites include Floyd, Matisyahu, Rush, RHCP, fun., Marley, Fleet Foxes, Jack Johnson, The Decemberists, The Pack, Tyler, Sly and the stones, etc. Anything that sounds pleasing to the ears

Favorite online video (link to it): Most Incredible Video You'll Ever See

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or findyourself using)?--- Swagged out is where it's at.

Online Assignment One

2012-01-26T11:52:00.001-08:00

Name and hometown: Brett Bachman, Elk Mound, Wisconsin

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now?

I would love to write for a big newspaper, or be a broadcaster for a big news station, especially a sports based station like ESPN. People like Howard Cosell and Bob Costas are people whose careers I admire.

Do you consume “news”? If you do, what are your main sources?

I use many different sources, but my favorite two are TIME magazine and Sports Illustrated. The Wisconsin State Journal online is another great source I've very recently found.

What kind of music do you like? (It could appear in lecture.)

Anything really, but mostly good, old fashioned rock&roll. If you played Bruce Springsteen everyday, I would be perfectly fine with that.

Favorite online video (link to it): Shaun White - The White Album

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)?

I hear people using the term "swag" all the time, but I'm not entirely sure what it means or in what context you're supposed to be using it.

2012-01-26T11:27:00.000-08:00

Name and hometown: Brendan Wolf, Whitefish Bay, WI

Possible future job? Anybody in that job you really admire now? My career aspirations are to enter the entertainment industry and become a film producer. The person I most admire in this field is Scott Rudin, who just this past year has produced Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, as well as Moneyball.

Do you consume “news”? If you do, what are your main sources? I do in fact consume news. As far as online consumption, I prefer the New York Times, and if I must get it from the television (which I usually try to avoid), I go with CNN.

What kind of music do you like? (It could appear in lecture.) My favorite band by far is Phish. I've gone to many of their shows, and it is always an amazing time.

Favorite online video (link to it): Bill O'Reilly Flips Out

What recent pop culture expression do you love (or find yourself using)? I find the whole Tim Tebow phenomenon pretty fascinating, so I exploit any opportunity to drop a "Tebow-ing" reference.