MCOM 279 - The Documentary Tradition 3 s.h.

This course is open to students interested in understanding the history and philosophy of the documentary genre as represented in American and world media cultures. It is oriented toward defining the concept of documentary, understanding the origins and development of the genre, and analyzing the philosophical and ethical debates surrounding this mode of communication. Epistemological questions about the nature of truth, knowledge/knowing, the social construction of reality, and the difference between objectivity, accuracy, authenticity, and fairness will be highlighted. The course will also address the role of documentaries as means of public information, social and political criticism, education, and propaganda. The impact of technology on the making and distribution of documentaries will be a consistent thread throughout the course.
LA
Prerequisite(s): SoS and MCOM 261 .