A program that examines the public's view of the relationship between media and democracy brings keynote speaker Robert J. Thompson to Rochester to discuss American media and popular television. The event will begin at 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 1, in the May Room of Wilson Commons on the University of Rochester's River Campus.
Thompson, professor and director of the Center for the Study of Popular Television at the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, will discuss how many Americans see the media as a waste of time and a toxic influence. Participants will be challenged to examine their views and attitudes toward various forms of media. The event is sponsored by the Office of Professional Development of the University's Margaret Warner Graduate School of Education and Human Development.
Thompson is known for his teaching and research on television, and is the author of several books on entertainment, including Television's Second Golden Age: From Hill Street Blues to ER and has appeared on 60 Minutes and The Today Show.
Small group sessions and discussions will follow his presentation. Gerald Coles, a professor of literacy and learning, will lead a session on the politics of reading, and Norm Silverstein, president and general manager of WXXI, will discuss how media outlets have affected election outcomes. Audience members will have the opportunity to question both panelists and Thompson.
Pre-registration is required; to register call Edwardine Weaver, RSM, director of the Office of Professional Development at the Warner School, at (585) 275-8270. Registration is $40, and includes a box supper. Full-time student rates and group registrations are available. Pre-registration is due Oct. 21.
Refreshments will be provided for participants starting at 3:30 p.m., and a box supper will be served at 6:30 p.m. The program ends at 7:30 p.m.