By centering on the transformative power of media in shaping political ideologies, public policies, and societal change, particularly in the realms of education and women’s empowerment. Through a personal journey that traverses diverse global landscapes and academic pursuits, I explore how media bias and strategic communication influence voter behavior and policy change. With experiences ranging from analyzing political campaigns in the U.S. to examining media coverage of women’s rights in India and educational reforms in Qatar, this video underscores the critical role of media in advocating for and effecting change. Lastly, I expand on a deepened understanding of the intricate relationship between media, politics, and education, highlighting the media’s potential to drive social change and the importance of adopting a global perspective in policy-making and advocacy efforts.

 

Hello! I’m Anna Kurian, and welcome to the Capstone Showcase of my Media and Politics Minor!

Embarking on this minor has been an enriching and insightful journey, one that allowed me to dive deep into the complex relationship between media and politics. The opportunity to engage in cross-institutional research and studies with Northwestern and Georgetown Qatar has been a highlight of my academic experience.

Through this platform, I am excited to share my experiences, insights, and reflections accumulated over the course of taking six diverse courses. This minor has not only broadened my academic horizons but also significantly influenced my extracurricular activities.

I invite you to explore my video presentation and accompanying essay. Your comments and engagement are highly encouraged—I look forward to connecting with you and sharing more information about my journey and the impactful lessons learned.

Course 1: NU-Q American Government and Politics

American Government and politics was among one of my favorite courses I took at NU-Q. I believe it was the biggest contributor to why I decided to even continue the media and politics minor. I was naturally drawn to American politics and government, having spent my formative years and childhood there, so having this course was a wonderful way to truly dissect the politics. I believe it has truly reformed in recent years, with identity politics and the growing partisanship between the Democratic and Republican parties, along with the many political agendas that both parties press on, being fascinating subjects.

One of the aspects that I hope to take away from this course is how there are many factors in congressional elections that exist for the overarching goal of a win. In the case of Senator John Cornyn, it included outstanding and prevalent subscriptions to hard-core right- wing politics and dedication to the Republican partisanship, capitalization on his undeniable incumbency advantages and lastly, his approaches to campaign message and calls to mobilization were amongst the top three pivotal contributors to his victory in the swing state of Texas. More pragmatically, the Texas Senate race was a microscopic perspective of the larger macrocosm of Americana politics. Spending the four months analyzing the senate race elections of Texas, the system reiterated that political institutions are more fragile than assumed. I understood how though the campaigns overall focused on America’s founded values of freedom and liberty, patriotism is a blunt instrument that Americans use against many emerging situations. The need for congressional reforms is a pressing issue and area that needs to be updated in the American Political system. In similar ways, America is steadily becoming more diverse and inclusive of minorities and different ethnicities and races, however, this is enticing as it is concerning, as the nation is shrouded in a breeding polarization of extremist parties and ideas that is making the divide and polarization ever so evident and problematic to the basic functions of economies, government, and society.

Course 2: NU-Q Politics in the Digital World

What I enjoyed about this course was how it profoundly impacted my understanding of the intricate interplay between politics, culture, and technology, particularly highlighting the role of digital platforms in shaping political narratives. The exploration into the political landscape of India, with its dynamic economy, rich political atmosphere, and cultural diversity, was especially captivating. This exploration marked my first encounter with the significant influence of the digital world on politics, unveiling the transformative power of media, the internet, and technology in disseminating political messages to society.

One aspect that stood out was the freedom afforded by the course to pursue personal interests within the broad framework of political studies. My background, having spent formative years in both Texas and India, naturally inclined me towards examining political issues pertinent to these regions. India’s political discourse, often centered around women’s rights—a subject still in progress—drew my attention. I was particularly intrigued by the story of Lakshmi Agarwal, an acid attack survivor who became a campaigner for the rights of acid attack survivors in India. Researching her story offered insight into how stakeholders and policies not only influence individual narratives like Lakshmi’s but also affect their portrayal and impact on society.

Another significant learning was the exposure to the broader political climate in my home country, leading to a deeper understanding of the prevailing issues and the necessary policy developments for the future. This course underscored the pervasive systemic inequalities that hinder women’s progress and their role in politics.

Moreover, the course shed light on the pivotal role of political tools, such as democracy, satire, agenda-setting, and framing, within the digital realm. Observing these tools in action, particularly in advocacy and policy-making, revealed their critical importance in advancing women’s issues in India. The case of Lakshmi Agarwal and the broader movement for acid attack survivors’ rights exemplified the effective use of these tools in mobilizing support and driving societal change.

Course 3: Internet and Society

The course “Internet and Society” offered profound insights into the multifaceted impact of digital media and technologies on academia, economies, and the socio-political landscape. A standout aspect for me was the exploration of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential to redefine communication methods and task completion. This exploration was not only theoretical but deeply analytical, enabling us to critically assess the implications of AI and big data in contemporary settings.

The examination of the Cambridge Analytica scandal served as a pivotal case study, highlighting the manipulation of big data and the profound reliance on AI and media technologies in modern society. This scandal illustrated the complexities of data privacy, the ethical use of information, and the power dynamics within digital platforms. It was particularly eye-opening to see the extent of automation in disseminating targeted political messages and a greater necessity for rigorous fact-checking mechanisms in the digital age. My engagement with the course culminated in a final project focused on the role of AI in healthcare. This project allowed me to delve into the practical applications of AI, acknowledging its benefits while critically examining the ethical dilemmas and considerations that accompany the adoption of such technologies. Through this project, I gained a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between leveraging AI for advancements in healthcare and ensuring ethical standards are met. The course’s emphasis on new technologies—such as automation, AI, and the role of big data networks—was particularly intriguing. It illuminated the extent of our dependence on these technologies and the ethical quandaries they pose. This comprehensive examination prompted a broader reflection on how we, as a society can navigate the integration of these technologies into our lives responsibly.

Course 4: GU-Q African Politics

Reflecting on the course, my key takeaway is the profound understanding of economic diversity within Africa and how pivotal the ideologies of pan-Africanism and the African Renaissance are in fostering sustainable development across the continent. This course offered a comprehensive exploration into the multifaceted economic landscapes of African nations, emphasizing the necessity for tailored approaches to development that account for the unique economic structures and resources of each country. It illuminated the importance of recognizing and adapting to this diversity rather than applying a one-size-fits-all strategy to achieve sustainable development goals.

The theme that intrigued me the most was the intricate relationship between pan-Africanism, the African Renaissance, and economic policy implementation. The discussions around whether pan-Africanism and the African Renaissance are still relevant in today’s world, especially the analogy describing their “sick” relationship, were particularly thought-provoking. This debate opened up a nuanced perspective on how these ideologies, far from being obsolete, are evolving slowly and continue to influence the formulation and implementation of policies aimed at economic and cultural renewal across Africa. The idea that pan-Africanism and the African Renaissance could serve as foundational pillars for the continent’s economic strategies, promoting unity, solidarity, and a resurgence of cultural values, is both inspiring and imperative.

These ideologies encourage a collaborative approach towards tackling the continent’s various challenges, including those related to economic diversity. They are crucial for devising policies that are not only economically beneficial but also culturally resonant and environmentally sustainable. This course has underscored the significance of integrating these ideological frameworks with practical economic objectives, thereby facilitating a more holistic and adaptive approach to sustainable development in Africa. It has reinforced my belief in the power of collective action and cultural revival as essential components in shaping Africa’s future economic landscape.

Course 5: GU-Q International Relations

In this course, I was particularly interested in how we explored multiple key topics of international relations. From discussing soft and hard power initiatives of Qatar to the multipolar ear, however I believe that stands out most to me is the analysis of Qatar’s role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly the Gaza crisis, from realist, liberalist, and constructivist perspectives.Through this I have understood a comprehensive understanding of the nation’s multifaceted involvement over the past two decades. Through these lenses, Qatar’s strategies and motivations in fostering relations with Palestine and Israel, and within the intra-Palestinian dynamics between Hamas and Fatah, are explored.

I was particularly interested in analyzing Qatar’s involvement through these frameworks. From a realist perspective, Qatar’s mediation efforts are seen as a strategic endeavor to enhance its regional power and influence. The nation’s active role in brokering ceasefires and providing substantial aid to Gaza is interpreted as a tactical move to assert its geopolitical significance in the Middle East. This approach underscores Qatar’s aim to establish itself as a pivotal political and economic force, leveraging its natural resources and wealth to gain political sway and maintain its autonomy.

The liberalist viewpoint highlights Qatar’s commitment to promoting peace and cooperation. By facilitating dialogue between Hamas and Israel and investing in Gaza’s infrastructure, Qatar seeks to foster peaceful resolutions and economic development. Its engagement in diplomatic efforts and international law adherence reflects a liberal approach to conflict resolution, emphasizing the importance of international institutions and collaboration in addressing socio-economic issues and achieving long-term stability.

Constructivist analysis focuses on the cultural, religious, and identity-based dimensions of Qatar’s foreign policy. The nation’s support for Palestine is framed within its Islamic values and historical connections, utilizing cultural diplomacy and media influence to shape public discourse and foster solidarity with the Muslim community. This perspective sheds light on Qatar’s efforts to mediate conflicts and promote its identity as a peace-loving, neutral entity while navigating the complex social constructs and regional dynamics.

Overall, I understood how Qatar’s involvement in the Gaza crisis is characterized by a blend of strategic, peace-promoting, and identity-driven motivations. By playing a central role as a mediator, aid provider, and cultural diplomat, Qatar seeks to influence regional politics, support Palestinian statehood, and contribute to peace and stability in the Middle East. This nuanced approach underscores the country’s unique strategy in navigating the intricate landscape of Middle Eastern politics, aiming for a peaceful resolution and enhanced regional influence.

Course 6: GU-Q Small State Security

One of the key insights gained from this course is the exploration of Qatar’s status as a small state economy. Entering this class with the preconceived notion of Qatar as a minor player, discussions revealed its remarkable global standing, challenging the conventional view of it as merely a “small state.” This misperception is effectively countered by Qatar’s wealth of natural resources and its combination of soft and hard power.

What particularly captivated me was the realization that Qatar’s economic role extends beyond its oil dependency. The revelation came when a guest speaker, the ambassador from the Netherlands to Qatar, highlighted Qatar’s substantial daily revenue from natural resources—ranging from 90 million USD on a lesser day to 240 million USD on a better one. These figures starkly contrast with the financial dealings typical of small states and surpass those of many larger nations, underscoring Qatar’s adept utilization of its assets to fortify its economy through strategic initiatives.

Qatar’s investment in educational infrastructure, such as the Education City initiative, and its involvement in global sports by hosting events like the FIFA World Cup and the Asian Cup, as well as investing in football teams and cultural projects, exemplify its dynamic application of soft and hard power. The country’s role as a mediator in international conflicts, including the Israeli-Gaza situation, further illustrates its influential position on the world stage, transcending the limitations commonly associated with smaller states.

This course has broadened my understanding of what it means for a small state to succeed and compete internationally, as Qatar does. It has also highlighted the importance of governmental and political collaborations and the seamless communication necessary for a state’s success. I look forward to learning more and comparing Qatar’s strategies with those of other small states, such as Singapore and the Netherlands, as the class progresses.

During my recent participation in the Pacific Sociological Association Conference in San Diego, California, I had the opportunity to present my own research under the Undergraduate Research Experience Program (UREP) while also witnessing the diversity of research projects from scholars around the world.

Among the many research projects, one particularly resonant study conducted by a fellow graduate student from the University of San Diego stood out. His exploration into the lived experiences of undocumented Mexican migrant workers in the United States shed light on their complex migration patterns, driven by the quest for a better standard of living. By employing extensive fieldwork and interviews, conducted through living among the Mexican migrants near the Mexico-California border, the research unveiled a compelling narrative that sought to redefine Mexican males beyond the narrow stereotypes of “illegal immigrants.”

This study underscored the inherently political nature of migration, intertwined with economic desperation and the instability of political economies. The findings highlighted how U.S state and national policies exacerbate the challenges faced by undocumented individuals, who constitute a significant portion of the blue-collar workforce, including in service, construction, and labor sectors—indispensable yet often invisible segments of society.

The research not only emphasized the need for further investigation in this area but also illustrated the researcher’s commitment to leveraging his findings. By initiating fundraising campaigns and social media advocacy at the University of San Diego, he aimed to raise awareness about the community’s plight. To a large extent, his efforts were able to bring more awareness to these communities and raise sufficient funds to aid the undocumented citizens within the United States, bettering their living conditions and trajectory to work towards working and staying legally. His efforts highlighted the potential for research to inform policy, advocating for the rights and improved living conditions of undocumented workers, thus calling on policymakers to enact meaningful change.

Reflecting on this project through the lens of my Media and Politics minor, it became evident how media serves as a powerful tool for amplifying marginalized voices, with the capacity to influence policy and instigate societal change. This research exemplifies the critical role of disseminating personal narratives and data online to make the struggles of these communities visible and heard.

This experience reaffirmed that as students and academics, it is absolutely necessary that I engage with and advance the narratives of those misrepresented or overlooked by mainstream discourse. It underscores the importance of our involvement in scholarly activities that not only foster academic growth but also contribute to societal progress by informing and influencing political actors at both national and local levels, thereby facilitating tangible changes.

The impact and sway of politics on global media are significantly shaped by the utilization of propaganda and the strategic employment of related tools. Instruments like agenda-setting, framing, and media bias are crucial; however, in isolation, they often prove insufficient for media organizations to exert substantial international, or even regional, influence. The most influential media agencies combine their inherent resources to maximize their impact. 

My foray into the Media and Politics minor was sparked by a keen interest in public policy, fueled by my engagement with political journalism on prominent platforms such as CNN, Times of India, and Al Jazeera. This exposure allowed me to critically assess media bias and its profound impact on shaping public opinion. However, by pursuing this minor, I better understood the complex interplay, more so, the symbiotic relationship between media and political movements. 

Firstly, the media plays a crucial role in changing public perception. Through the American Politics and Government course, I delved into the political systems of the United States through a detailed case study analysis of the Texas Senate race between MJ Hegar and John Cornyn. This study provided a comprehensive view of political parties, partisanship, and polarization, highlighting Senator Cornyn’s successful campaign strategies to secure votes. To a large extent, Cornyn’s victory was significantly aided by his adept use of mass media campaigns across various platforms, both digital and print, employing narratives that resonated with core Republican values such as gun law stances, immigration policies, education, and pro-life choices. 

Cornyn’s campaign’s ability to appeal to emotions and capitalize on these values ensured the retention of existing supporters while also engaging previously inactive voter segments, notably within the Hispanic and African American communities–who were more aggressively targeted across all campaigns. My fascination was centered on his ability to change public perception. Likewise, it also highlighted the necessity of conducting precise target audience research to ensure that curated messages reach intended segments effectively.

However, the effectiveness of Cornyn’s campaign was underpinned by strategic agenda-setting and framing, tools that were instrumental in influencing societal views. The media’s strong emphasis on Republican ideals not only served the political agenda but also reinforced identity politics and exacerbated partisan divides between Democrats and Republicans within the United States. This case study underscored the power of propaganda, narrative building, and the strategic use of media to frame political issues and agenda-setting to mobilize individuals or groups for policy advocacy, to bring impactful change. 

Understanding propaganda and the variability in narrative portrayal across media platforms reveals how information can also be distorted. My coursework in Politics in the Digital World delved into the spread of information, misinformation, media bias, and virality. Using Facebook’s Cambridge Analytica scandal as a case study in my Internet and Society course, I improved my understanding of how even the most reliable and “fact-checked” news on digital platforms can be manipulated, raising ethical questions about the role of propaganda or news in disseminating false narratives. This prompted me to question: Does media bias render information false?

Applying these insights to the news circulated in my home country, India, I examined media coverage and policy frameworks surrounding women’s rights and the extent of their communication or censorship in Indian media. Through analyzing the cases of Jyothi Singh and Laxmi Agrawal—well-known victims and survivors of abuse against women in India, whose stories received unprecedented media attention both nationally and internationally—I better understood how political advocacy leverages virality and how media bias can be a positive force. With the advent of Netflix documentaries, Bollywood autobiographies, retweets, and shares, these individual stories achieved significant media traction, with the media swiftly framing the news to serve justice to their narratives. The stories of these women concerning women’s rights in India demonstrated that media bias is sometimes essential for achieving virality, drawing public attention, and driving policy changes or movements advocating for women’s rights.

Further adding to this theme, my coursework at Georgetown University- Qatar broadened my perspective, introducing me to topics centered around the Arab region as well as the United States. Likewise, the underlying theme of the media’s role in the mobilization of society toward political action further became more apparent. In my International Relations and Small State Security coursework, I analyzed how Qatar’s media and diplomatic strategies concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict heavily relied on the media. Through examining the impact of Qatar’s independent news agency, Al-Jazeera, I was able to see how they were more politically affiliated with the values and norms of Qatar and Islam. For example, what Al-Jazeera deemed as “newsworthy” largely indicated Qatar’s role as a mediator in the international politics of the Israel-Gaza crisis. By taking a strong stance that is pro-Palestine leaning but remaining neutral to maintain relationships with the United States, Al-Jazeera’s news framing showcased how the media is a significant political tool as well as an indicator.

Likewise, in a more detailed study of Qatar within the Small State Security course, I better understood the strategic ties Qatar has with the United States. What is remarkable and most noticeable within Qatar’s diplomatic ties, is the educational initiative taken by the Ministry of Education and Qatar Foundation’s Education City, including the current six international branch campuses from the United States. These initiatives add to Qatar’s soft power and are largely publicized and rely on media networks to maintain relevance and publicity to leverage the educational infrastructure of Qatar in global politics. Political entities leverage media and digital platforms to influence public perception and policy initiatives. Essentially, the media plays a crucial role in shaping and navigating power dynamics. In sum, the media being cultivated and produced all add to the image of Qatar as a global and international actor. Although the thematic links are not seemingly related, they essentially reiterate the significance of media in mobilizing people or driving policy and projecting a public image. 

My experience with courses within the minor has given me the necessary skills and background to analyze the influence of media and politics within local and international education policy, a key interest in my undergraduate career. A pivotal example/case study that encapsulates this theme, is my research of education/pedagogy policy in Qatar, India, and other regions. Within all research projects, I more specifically focus on how policies and politics define international and national education for female students, international students, and marginalized populations.

During my time spent as a tutor in Qatar’s Qutor’s Foundation, internships/volunteer work within Tamil Nadu’s local schools and Project Hope (a non-profit orphanage for displaced women), research projects on pedagogy within Education City, I better understood the role of Education in an economy. Within the realm of my experiences, the Education City initiative in Qatar stands out as one of the most successful educational infrastructures. The portrayal of the Education City across all paid and owned media, as discussed by Neha Vora in “Teach for Arabia,” not only highlights Qatar’s stances on the empowerment of women but also links it to Qatar’s economic ties with the United States and advanced its international image being associated with the superpower. This is crucial to consider because once again Education City, while ostensibly aimed at broad societal benefits, also served economic interests and is largely a political move too, illustrating the duality of politics in educational reforms. Likewise, the media drives this image internationally.

The amount of media coverage, endorsement, and investment that continues to go into Qatar’s Education City, stands as a testament to how effective policies, coupled with strategic media coverage, can promote public goods with societal benefits. Indeed, the sum of these experiences has shown me how almost everything is political and relies on the media. The media is necessary to make these changes. Reflecting on my academic journey in the Media and Politics minor, I’ve come to realize its profound impact on reshaping my understanding of policy formation, strategic motivations behind policy advocacy through media campaigns, and the critical role of rhetoric in political mobilization. This experience has not only broadened my perspective, encouraging me to view these dynamics from a global lens but also deepened my comprehension of the dynamic interplay between media strategies and political movements.

My engagement with the curriculum, particularly in exploring the art of persuasive communication tailored to sway public opinion, has illuminated the power of agenda-setting and framing. These tools are indispensable in sculpting compelling narratives across both digital and traditional media platforms, which are pivotal in rallying support for social and political causes. Such narratives underscore the media’s significant influence on public policy and societal transformation. Moreover, the program has enriched my understanding of the media’s watchdog role in sustainable development goals and political transparency, highlighting its capacity to reduce censorship and foster the global spread of information. Despite the prevalence of media bias and misinformation, I remain optimistic about its potential to enlighten the public, enhance freedoms, and empower activists.

This enriched perspective is a product of blending rigorous undergraduate research with practical classroom learning, offering profound insights into the media’s influence on public policymaking. My passion, particularly for educational policy, aligns with understanding how media discourse shapes the agenda, influencing both policymakers and the public. This synthesis of media studies and public policy underscores my commitment to delve deeper into the field, aiming to contribute to the development of educational infrastructure and policies in India and beyond, leveraging media to effect meaningful change.

The journey through the Media and Politics minor has not only enriched my academic knowledge but also ignited a passion for leveraging media as a powerful tool for advocacy and change, particularly in areas that directly impact community well-being and global development.

Within the Indian context, this encompasses advocating for and implementing improved programs for women from rural communities to access education, developing policies aimed at providing better incentives for students to remain in school, offering subsidized education, and enhancing the visibility of existing initiatives that drive these progressive ideas forward. Effective coverage of such issues can help to draw greater attention to these topics, making them more relevant within governments and among leaders of societies that fail to make education equitable for disadvantaged communities. With an interest to pursue academia further,  I look forward to studying education and public policy and analysis at either Harvard or the University of Pennsylvania this fall.