SOCI3052 Sociology of Art, Media and Culture

Is art and creativity the work of inspired individuals? How do different technologies and media impact how we see the world? How do media industries influence how individuals interact online and in person? How do digital media liberate creative talent while initiating new forms of exploitation? This Topic introduces students to the everyday uses and experiences of media we use to 'connect' with each other and with the wider world. It also investigates the production of culture within the globalised cultural industries with particular emphasis on the impact of digital media. By drawing on examples from film, television, music, and journalism in Australian and international contexts and sociologists such as Adorno, McLuhan, Becker and Bourdieu, students will gain a critical understanding of the 'macro' and 'micro' dynamics of art, media and culture.

This topic aims to:

• Gain an understanding of sociological lines of inquiry into the production of culture
• Acquire a solid understanding of key concepts that sociologists use when they study art and media; and especially debates about the sociological implications of specific media for individuals and society
• Obtain a basic understanding how they themselves might undertake a project in the sociological study of media and/or practices

1. Demonstrate knowledge of key sociological theorists and analysts of art, media and cultural production
2. Demonstrate understanding of the differences between micro and macro levels of analysis, and their interconnections
3. Apply necessary reading and written/verbal, theoretical and analytical skills to the sociology of art, media, and culture