JOUR2256 · University and Capstone
Morrissey College of Arts & Sciences
Note to Journalism minors: this course satisfies the requirement for an elective with a "critical" orientation. A term borrowed from digital mapping, ground truth argues that reporting from the ground up is a journalists highest calling. This course first explores the idea of truth, from ancient Greece and great theologians to contemporary writers. We will then examine the rise of nationalist leaders around the world weaponizing doubt; how discernible factsand the truth itselfhave come under attack and; and how news organizations can best live up to Edward R Murrows admonishment to serve without fear or favor. The course will introduce students to an international survey of ground-level reporting that focuses on the role of the journalist as a witness who speaks truth to power.
Course experience
Averages use the original five-point historical evaluation scale.
Organization
3.9 / 5
How well the course was organized
Challenge
4.3 / 5
How intellectually challenging students found it
Attendance
4.3 / 5
How necessary attendance was
Assignments
4.6 / 5
How helpful assignments were
Weekly effort
~3.5
hours per week
Estimated from the original workload response buckets. Individual sections may differ.
Instructor options
Ratings below reflect the evaluations connected to this course.
Across time
Available section-level results across semesters.
Spring 2024
1 sectionFall 2023
1 sectionFall 2022
1 sectionFall 2021
1 section