Movies and television series can teach political science and international relations by exploring political ideas through various genres, such as gangster movies, political thrillers, action movies, superhero films, war movies, and Western movies. These genres offer escape while also providing important political lessons.

Format: Hardback
Length: 408 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

Movies and television series are powerful tools for teaching political science and international relations, providing a unique perspective on the political subtext of these media products. This book explores politics through five film genres and their variants, including gangster movies, political thrillers, action movies, superhero films, and war movies. Gangster movies focus on American and other organized crime, while political thrillers express paranoia about secrecy and political conspiracies. Action movies channel anger at foreign and domestic threats to order, while superhero films and TV present modern characters who seek to serve society as they face personal struggles about their individual identities. War movies promote positive images of wars when conflicts are perceived as successful, but often include antiwar messages when wars turn out badly. Western movies fell out of favor in the 1970s and 1980s but have undergone a renaissance since the 1990s, offering either political parables or meditations on policing, anarchy, and community organization. The author argues that while these genres all offer escape, they also offer important political lessons.

Movies and Television Series as Tools for Teaching Political Science and International Relations

Movies and television series have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing a unique and engaging way to explore political ideas and issues. These media products offer a wide range of genres and styles, allowing viewers to explore different aspects of politics and international relations. One of the key benefits of movies and television series is that they can help students and fans understand and appreciate the political subtext of these media products. By examining the stories and characters in various film and television genres, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of the political dynamics that shape our world.

Five Film Genres and Their Variants

This book examines politics through five film genres and their variants. Gangster movies focus on American and other organized crime, while political thrillers express paranoia about secrecy and political conspiracies. Action movies channel anger at foreign and domestic threats to order, while superhero films and TV present modern characters who seek to serve society as they face personal struggles about their individual identities. War movies promote positive images of wars when conflicts are perceived as successful, but often include antiwar messages when wars turn out badly. Western movies fell out of favor in the 1970s and 1980s but have undergone a renaissance since the 1990s, offering either political parables or meditations on policing, anarchy, and community organization.

Political Lessons from Movies and Television Series

While these genres all offer escape, they also offer important political lessons. Gangster movies, for example, can teach viewers about the power of organized crime and the impact it has on society. Political thrillers can help viewers understand the importance of transparency and accountability in government. Action movies can show viewers the consequences of violence and the importance of peaceful conflict resolution. Superhero films and TV can inspire viewers to become active citizens and work towards a better world. War movies can provide a historical perspective on conflicts and the impact they have on individuals and communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, movies and television series are excellent tools for teaching political science and international relations. By examining the stories and characters in various film and television genres, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of the political dynamics that shape our world. Whether you are a student or a fan, these media products can provide you with valuable insights and inspiration.

Weight: 794g
Dimension: 227 x 161 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793635167