MS Policy and Regulation

Announcements and Test Preparation

  • Front Wheel Statement:

    • Front wheel was fixed, signaling everything is back to normal.

    • Some issues with announcements not reaching everyone, which was frustrating.

  • Test Reminder:

    • A test is scheduled for the next day.

    • Emphasis on approachability of material; it will be challenging but fair.

    • Students are encouraged to bring notes and to review materials thoroughly.

    • Office hours available from 12 to 2 for any questions.

Ideology and Propaganda

  • Definition of Propaganda:

    • Content created with the intent to deceive, often in a political context.

    • Example: CIA campaigns during the Guatemalan conflict.

  • Understanding Ideology:

    • Ideology refers to shared cultural values and beliefs within a society.

    • Examples include advertising campaigns (like crest whitening strips) that appeal to societal beauty standards, rather than attempting to deceive.

  • Cultural Ideological Critique:

    • Involves identifying power structures and critiquing media representations.

    • Example: "Indiana Jones" films are critiqued for misogynistic and culturally insensitive elements despite their entertainment value.

    • It reinforces the idea that media can be both enjoyable and problematic at the same time.

Critique of Media Representation

  • Content Analysis of "Indiana Jones":"

    • Issues of masculinity portrayed through Indiana Jones’ character.

    • Critique of cultural appropriation: Indiana's actions in foreign cultures reflect problematic narratives.

    • Discussion emphasizes the complex nature of films, as both entertaining and culturally significant.

Regulation and Industry Standards

  • Media Regulations:

    • Social and ethical regulations in media are crucial for maintaining integrity and fairness in representation.

    • MPAA and FCC:

      • The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) regulates film ratings, while the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) manages communication laws.

      • Historical context of FCC’s creation as part of ensuring fair media distribution through the Communications Act of 1934.

  • Self-Regulation in Media:

    • Professional associations set standards for various fields (e.g., IEEE for engineering).

    • Benefits include maintaining public trust and promoting ethics.

Challenges of Independent Media

  • Emergence of Independent Media:

    • Historically left-leaning, indie media provided alternative platforms for community voices and critical reporting.

    • Shift to polarized media, such as Rush Limbaugh for the right and various progressive outlets for the left, reflects a divided landscape.

  • Impact of Social Media on News Distribution:

    • Platforms like Facebook have empowered grassroots movements (e.g., Arab Spring, Occupy Wall Street) while also enabling misinformation.

    • Challenge: Distinguishing disinformation (intentional deception) from misinformation (unintentional spread of false information).

Current Issues in Media

  • Misleading Information and Ethics:

    • Disinformation is intentionally created to mislead, while misinformation can spread due to negligence or misunderstanding.

    • Recent examples include misinformation concerning food safety (e.g., Girl Scout cookies containing glyphosate).

  • First Amendment Limitations:

    • Free speech is limited; protections do not apply in private contexts (e.g., workplace settings).

    • Categories of unprotected speech include defamation and incitement to violence.

  • Net Neutrality and Common Carriers:

    • Net neutrality ensures all internet traffic is treated equally, preventing prioritization based on service providers' interests.

    • Common carrier rules mandate non-discriminatory practices among service providers.

Social Media's Impact on Culture

  • Evolving Role of Referees in Media:

    • Questions raised about who regulates content on social media platforms and how they handle controversial or harmful content.

  • Cultural Critique of Media Practices:

    • The rise of social media has complicated traditional media regulation and created challenges in ensuring fair and accurate information dissemination.

  • Misinformation and Disinformation Dynamics:

    • Disinformation is intentional and manipulative, whereas misinformation spreads due to lack of verification.

  • Framing and Agenda Setting:

    • Framing involves what news chooses to emphasize or exclude in a story, while agenda setting influences what issues become prioritized.

Resources

  • League of Women Voters of Pittsburgh:

    • A recommended resource to explore misinformation and the influence of independent media.