BACKGROUND

What is Politics?

In a nutshell, politics is the art of persuasion, discourse and debate. It is enticing someone to follow your viewpoint. The purpose

of this course is to examine these things.

MEDIA

Students will think critically about the media and it's impact upon their decision making processes. Students will examine the extent to

which media proprietors influence the information which is channeled through their outlets. We will look at the role that the major media

conglomerates play in shaping our world view. Do these companies have specific interests and do these influence the flow of information?

ACTIVISM

How does the individual play a role in the political sphere? Is it truly a case of money=power or does the little man have a part to play? We

will look at a variety of ngo's (Non Government Organizations) that have had an impact on the political stage. Students will also investigate

the arts, specifically music and film/television to see what form of voice they give to the dispossessed.

PRACTICAL POLITICS

Students will investigate one current political issue.Students will attempt to reach an

understanding of the forces which influence the particular issue. Students will also develop a background understanding of the particular

issue. As an example students would need to understand the system by which the President of the United States is elected, and

the potential impact upon their own lives of a US Federal election. Students will also examine political campaigns and the strategies utilized therein.







RETURN