Pols 2301 Extra Credit Writing Assignments Spring 2017 Semes ✓ Solved

Pols 2301 Extra Credit Writing Assignmentspring 2017 Semesteryou May W

Write a 5-7 page double-spaced essay on any subject related to POLS 2301, including outside sources with proper citations and a reference list. The paper must be submitted via email to the instructor by December 8, using Times New Roman 12-point font. The grade received on the paper will determine the extra credit earned, up to a maximum of five points added to the final grade. Original work is required; plagiarism will result in no credit and reporting to the Dean of Students. No submissions are accepted after May 3. Sources such as Wikipedia, Answers.com, About.com, StudyMode.com, or similar sites are prohibited. At least one source per page is necessary for full credit. Students are encouraged to discuss their chosen topic with the instructor if unsure about its relevance.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Title: The Impact of Political Communication on Democratic Engagement

Introduction

Political communication plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception and engagement within democratic societies. With the advent of digital technology and social media, the landscape of political communication has transformed dramatically over recent decades. This paper explores the influence of political communication on democratic engagement, examining how information dissemination, media framing, and misinformation affect citizens' participation in democratic processes.

Historical Context of Political Communication

Historically, traditional media such as newspapers, radio, and television served as primary channels for political communication. These mediums provided a one-way flow of information from political figures to the public, often limited in interactivity. The rise of the internet and social media platforms revolutionized this dynamic, enabling direct interaction between politicians and constituents, as well as among citizens themselves. This shift expanded the scope and immediacy of political discourse, impacting democratic participation.

The Role of Media in Democratic Engagement

Media act as the conduit through which citizens receive political information, thus influencing their understanding and engagement. Framing effects in media, which involve emphasizing particular aspects of a story, can shape public opinion and electoral outcomes. Studies show that balanced reporting fosters informed participation, whereas biased or sensationalist coverage can distort perceptions and discourage civic involvement (McCombs & Shaw, 1972). Additionally, the rise of social media has democratized information sharing but also facilitated the spread of misinformation and fake news, complicating efforts to maintain informed electorates (Allcott & Gentzkow, 2017).

Impact of Misinformation and Fake News

The proliferation of misinformation poses a significant threat to democratic engagement. False narratives can mislead voters, polarize communities, and undermine trust in democratic institutions. For instance, during the 2016 U.S. presidential election, numerous false stories circulated extensively on social media, influencing voter perceptions and behaviors (Vosoughi, Roy, & Aral, 2018). Combating misinformation requires both technological solutions and increased media literacy among citizens to critically evaluate online content.

The Effectiveness of Political Campaign Strategies

Political campaigns have adapted to digital platforms, using targeted advertising and micro-messaging to reach specific demographics. These strategies can mobilize voters and increase participation, but also raise ethical concerns regarding privacy and manipulation. Research indicates that social media engagement correlates with higher voter turnout, yet disparities in access and digital literacy can create uneven effects across different socioeconomic groups (Boulianne, 2015).

Conclusion

In conclusion, political communication significantly influences democratic engagement. While digital technology has expanded opportunities for active participation, it also introduces challenges such as misinformation and unequal access. Ensuring a well-informed electorate requires efforts to promote media literacy, regulate misinformation, and maintain transparent communication channels. As democracies evolve in the digital age, understanding and harnessing the power of political communication remains essential for fostering vibrant democratic societies.

References

  • Allcott, H., & Gentzkow, M. (2017). Social Media and Fake News in the 2016 Election. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 31(2), 211–236.
  • Boulianne, S. (2015). Social Media Use and Participation: A Meta-Analysis of Research. Communication Research, 42(2), 175–191.
  • McCombs, M., & Shaw, D. L. (1972). The Agenda-Setting Function of Mass Media. Public Opinion Quarterly, 36(2), 176–187.
  • Vosoughi, S., Roy, D., & Aral, S. (2018). The Spread of True and False News Online. Science, 359(6380), 1146–1151.

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