Media play a central role in contemporary democracies. They inform citizens, shape public debates, influence political agendas, and provide a platform through which political actors communicate with the public. At the same time, the rapid development of digital technologies and social media has profoundly transformed the way political information is produced, distributed, and consumed.
This course explores the relationships between media, communication, and politics in contemporary societies. Students will examine how news is produced, how political actors seek to influence public opinion, how media shape perceptions of political issues, and how digital platforms have changed political communication. Through contemporary examples and case studies, the course will address topics such as election campaigns, political advertising, misinformation, social media, populism, political polarization, and the role of emotions in public debate.
Designed for students with no prior background in political science or communication studies, the course emphasizes critical thinking and evidence-based analysis of contemporary political communication.
