International Communication
School of International Service
American University

Ph.D. Comprehensive Exam
Fall 2007

DIRECTIONS: Please answer the following three questions.

(1). International communications systems have undergone a radical transformation in the past decade owing to technological convergence, digitization, vertical integration of information industries, emergence of new networks such as the Internet, the end of the Cold War, geopolitical shifts since 9/11 and the rapid spread of liberalization and privatization to all nations and regions of the world. Which traditions of communication theory and research are best able to explain these changes, especially in the context of implications for the nation state, cultural sovereignty, and socio-economic development? Discuss the strengths, weaknesses, and epistemological structures of the theories and research traditions you have selected, and their capacities to address the intersections between international communications and international relations.

(2) New developments in communication policy are transforming the cultural, political, and economic structure of national media and information systems in all regions of the world. Using a communication policy model of your choice (national-cultural, public service, liberal or development regulatory models), discuss an emerging Information Society policy issue and analyze its implications for culture and political development. You may select a specific policy issue at the international/multilateral level, or an issue pertaining to a particular nation or region. Please support your analysis with relevant literature in communication policy theory and research.

(3) The rise of new transnational satellite television networks based in the Middle East, China, Latin America or Europe challenge the conventional thesis of 'cultural imperialism' associated with the power of American cultural industries. Discuss the media and cultural power these new networks might suggest and their implications for public opinion and cultural practices in one or more regions of the world. Should dominant paradigms of communication and cultural studies—such as post-structuralism, postmodernism, Gramscianism, etc.-- be revised in view of the socio-cultural reality of these networks? Explain the basis of your judgment.