Media as a Catalyst for Social Change

This final issue of the quarter, produced by the students in COM321/POLS330, focuses on the media as a global change agent in three distinct ways. First, we consider the paradox of local cultures and social activists using global technologies to protect themselves or promote their causes in the face of globalization. Second, we reflect on the multi-billion dollar industry of media exports - such as Hollywood films, Japanese games shows, and even cartoons - as a cultural force. Third, we introduce the phenomenon of global media products - such as music - whose formats and content have lost any sense of national or cultural origin after years of 'traveling' the world.

We hope you enjoy our work.