Political advertising is potentially the most important component of modern political campaigns, particularly in high-level races. In some cases, political ads can consume over one-half of the campaign budget targeting incumbents or challengers with emotional appeals and/or dramatic attacks. We are also experiencing dramatic shifts in campaigning as more candidates craft on-line and social media appeals. Parties and interest groups target key contests and insert their own messages into campaign discourse. This course gives students the chance to explore the research, debates, and timely cases from the academic study of political advertising. Not offered every year.
Prerequisites Methods of Political Inquiry and one other 200 level course or permission of the instructor.