Overview

This module examines the impact of the ‘risk society’ on journalism, and the impact of journalism on the ‘risk society’. It will address what the risk society is (i.e. it's future facing, where the facts are uncertain, and the stakes are high). It will examine how it manifests in journalism across a range of different risk issues (like health risks, environmental risks, and political risks). Lectures and seminars will introduce you to academic studies and a host of examples in this area. It is assessed by an individual essay and group work (where you co-lead a seminar).

This course starts by presenting and critiquing the concept of risk, and the development of the field of risk communication. It then examines two key theorists of the 'risk society', namely Ulrich Beck and Anthony Giddens, to explore sociological theoretical foundations that explain inter-relationships of risk, trust, expertise and mass-mediated communication. Building on this theoretical lens, it then moves to examine in-depth specific risk issues and their journalistic communication, ranging from health risks like COVID-19 to security risks like terrorism.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -(D) Submitted work is adequate and shows an acceptable level of competence as follows:1.Generally accurate but with omissions and errors.2.Assertions are made without clear supporting evidence or reasoning.3.Has structure but is lacking in clarity and therefore relies on the reader to make links and assumptions.4.Draws on a relatively narrow range of material.

-good -(B) Submitted work is competent throughout and may be distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It:1.Demonstrates good or very good structure and logically developed arguments.2.Draws at least in parts on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student.3.Assertions are backed by evidence and sound reasoning.4.Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

-excellent -(A) Submitted work is of an outstanding quality and excellent in one or more of the following ways:1.Has originality of exposition with the student’s own thinking being readily apparent.2.Provides clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study.3.Arguments are laid down with clarity and provide the reader with successive stages of consideration to reach conclusions.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyse the communicative problems and opportunities across different journalistic forms and genres presented by a range of contemporary risk issues;

• Assemble and summarise journalistic risk communication that reflects best practice guidelines.

• Identify and analyse existing risk communication problems apparent in the world today.

• Summarise and evaluate empirical and theoretical literature on risk communication and journalism;

• Summarise and examine the sociological concepts of risk and trust;