This episode of MSU Today explores how race and identity influence the reception and comprehension of news. Michigan State University scholars Marisa Smith and Christina Myers join the discussion to share their expertise. Marisa Smith, an assistant professor of advertising and journalism, examines the effects of political information and disinformation, focusing on how race, identity, and politics shape public policy support, political polarization, civic engagement, and political opinion. Christina Myers, an assistant professor of journalism and a former journalist, combines Critical Race theory and Mass Communication theory to analyze race in media. Her research explores depictions of Black experiences and the presence of implicit racial bias and racist ideologies in music, sports, and news narratives.
Podcast Highlights:
- (1:16) – Christina, what’s your background, and what attracted you to MSU?
- (4:20) – Marisa, what’s your background, and what attracted you to MSU?
- (7:42) – Marisa, describe your research interests. What are some of your recent research findings as they relate to race, identity and news coverage?
- (19:37) – Christina, describe your research interests. What are some of your recent research findings as they relate to race, identity and news coverage?
- (24:57) - What is Critical Race Theory? What are the facts and myths surrounding it? How have Critical Race Theory and Diversity Equity and Inclusion been weaponized?
- (40:24) - How can consumers be more critical about the information they’re receiving?
- (48:42) – Summary of the conversation and final thoughts.