This course is a study of media globalization, migration and multicultural formations that have shaped American national identity. The aim of the course is to examine the ways in which migrant and minority groups use media practices to create communities of belonging to demand cultural recognition and inclusion. The course will illuminate the ways in which minority groups negotiate national, transnational, and diasporic identities. The course begins with the debate on high versus mass/popular culture popularized by Birmingham Cultural Studies theorists. It focuses on case studies, such as Latin American telenovelas, Hip hop youth culture and Korean wave (K-pop and K-drama) and Hollywood films. It enables students to analyze media meanings and systems of representations that construct national and transnational identity in the context of globalization and neocolonialism. Students will discuss, debate, and interrogate representations and stereotypes of Black, Latinx and Asian American groups to enhance their critical understanding of gendered and racial ideologies embedded in digital and mass media.

NB: I have included recommended books that are optional and only for supplementary reading to allow a deeper understanding of the case studies taught in this course. I will upload all required course readings on Bcourse. These books are available in the library and at Cal Student Store and make excellent summer reading. show less