Updated: 04/17/2003

 

• What does Postman mean by a "meta-medium"? How does that apply to the role of television in our society and what are the implications for you?

• What position does Bernard Goldberg take on the concept of "truth"?  How does he see the responsibility of journalists toward it?  How well do they meet that responsibility?  What are the problems/challenges they face? How are those challenges connected to the three world views discussed in class?

•  Compare and contrast Utilitarianism and Egalitarianism.  Provide some background concerning the origins of these philosophies, how they are alike and different, and how they apply to situations in which media practitioners may find themselves.

• Discuss the three types of relativism and the myths/misunderstandings associated with relativism. What problems do you see with relativism in its various forms, as a basis of ethical decision-making for media practitioners?

• Discuss the concept of TRUTH.  How do YOU define it?  How do YOU derive it?  How and why have you come to these conclusions?  How does this apply to your decision-making process as a future media professional?  (NOTE: Do NOT give me wishy-washy generalizations.  I need logical, clear, and grounded arguments to support your position on this one. THINK!!!)

• Discuss the ethical implications of political correctness for the media practitioner?  What are the challenges at hand?  What is the impact on "truth?"

• What does the issue of privacy mean to the media practitioner in YOUR field?  What torts are involved?  What are your rights and the rights of those you cover?  What are the ethical implications?   (May not be on the test if we don't get it covered in class.)

• Why would Josh McDowell agree with Postman when he writes. “Television gave the epistemological biases of the telegraph and photograph their most potent expression, raising the interplay of image and instancy to an exquisite dangerous perfection?”

• Discuss the concept of “precept – principle – person” in determination of right and wrong.

•  What is the SAD formula and how does it work?  Why does your author believe it is an effective guideline for media practitioners? 

• Currently media practitioners are faced with a number of challenges when trying to determine and present truth? Among those challenges are the current political correctness forces, market forces and personal bias.  Discuss each one of these as they affect reporting, gatekeeping, and potential impact of a journalist's work on society.  

• What would Socrates say about Postman's theories in Amusing Ourselves To Death?  Be specific and support what you say?

• Discuss the concept of the "plumb line" as it relates to the issue of determining right and wrong. How would the plumb line be perceived in the three worldviews of traditionalism, modernism and postmodernism?  Why is that significant?

Good luck!  Remember the Study Session is at Dr. Mc's house on Tuesdat, April 23rd, at 7:00 p.m. Bring soft drink and snack.  We should be finished between 9:00 and 9:30 at the latest. (Maps are on Dr. Mc's office door if you need directions)