In this lesson, We explore the universal need to receive and share information and the function that news has played in every recorded society: to alert, to connect and to divert. Paying attention to disaster and celebrity stories – even dog stories – is embedded deeply in our DNA. We then examine the specific cases in the United States and the role technology has played in amplifying information – from smoke signals to television – and how this also has enabled the sender to control the news.
Students leave this class with an understanding of why there is a need for a free flow of information in American and other cultures and why some people are willing to kill (and journalists are willing to die) in the battle to control information.
Key Concepts Include:
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It's in our nature: Since humans first walked the earth, the power of information has derived from its ability to alert, divert and connect people.
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The battle to control information is universal. The causes and costs of censorship.
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The watchdog role of the press.
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The foundations and unique nature of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Objectives of this Lesson:
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Explain the human need for information and categorize it into three broad types.
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Describe how technology amplifies the power of information.
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Compare modern and historic examples that illustrate the power of information.
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Use specific examples to explain why journalists risk their lives to uncover and share information.
Lesson Vocabulary:
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Alert, Divert and Connect
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Censorship
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Freedom of the Press
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Watchdog Role of the Press
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First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution
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Reliability
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Credibility