ENG 215: The Struggle of the Free Press: Fake News & Conspiracy Theories

Instructor: Christa Gala and Veronika Zavřelová
Credits: 3
GEP: Interdisciplinary Perspectives; Global Knowledge

Course Description

This course examines fake news and conspiracy theories and how they affect both the communication and comprehension of general citizens–as well as the viability of a free press [journalists]. How do journalists deal with disinformation and threats from entities that don’t want them correcting propaganda? What are the consequences when they do? The Global Press Freedom Index, produced annually by Reporters without Borders, will inform our study, illustrating the global consequences for fake news–to economies, elections, and global diplomacy. Why is fake news spreading so quickly? We’ll explore the agendas behind fake news and how technology, including AI, is fueling the bonfire of disinformation. How can citizens and journalists alike discern the truth now and in the future? This course includes classroom lectures and fieldwork that explores media outlets as well as the political history and cultural aspects of the host country and the U.S.