Identity and Difference

Course Content:

This module introduces major theories in media and cultural studies in order to explore
the ways in which different social groups ? different ?identities?? are represented in the
media.

The module examines both mainstream and alternative media representations of gender
and sexuality, ?race? and ethnicity, social class and national identity, amongst others.

These are approached through theories that focus on the significance of ideas of
?identity?, ?difference?, ?culture?, and ?ideology? in these representations.

The module also addresses the ways in which the media address different audience
groups in terms of their gender/sexuality, class, and ?race?/ethnicity and explores the
extent to which the media define the interests, activities, and characteristics of these
audiences.

The module is divided into three blocks. The first block provides a general introduction to
theories of identity, representative examples of selected identity groups, and major
methodological approaches to the analysis of identity that will be required for the
completion of the module assessment. The other two blocks concentrate in detail on
selected identity formations: gender/sexuality and ?race?/ethnicity.

Summary of autumn semester content:
? Gender and the Media
? Sexuality
? Living online: Technology and virtual Identity
? Representing class, nation, and race
? Consumer culture: Western and non-western
? Music and Identity

Summary of spring semester content:
? Gender and the Media
? Stuff for Boys ? Masculinity in the Media
? Race and America
? Music videos and gender performance
? Contemporary feminism and the media
? Living Online: Technology and virtual identity

Teaching: Weekly one hour lectures/workshops and one hour seminars

Assessment:
STUDY OPTION 1:
Portfolio:
? 1500 word Independent Research Exercise (40%)
? 2500 word Research Assignment (60%)
STUDY OPTION 2: Research exercise

Study Option 1 = Whole Year
Study Option 2 = Autumn
Study Option 3 = Spring/summer