Tv show: Law and Order SVU: Season 13 Episode 6 “True Believers
Specifics of the Activity:
For this activity, you’ll be watching a television show and analyzing how it reflects the realities of race and ethnicity in contemporary society. You will be using existing sources as a research method to conduct a content analysis of one episode of a specific TV series you choose.
Refer back to the content within this course module to be sure you understand the major concepts relative to understanding the sociology of race and ethnicity.
Choose a television series (whether it’s a drama, comedy, or reality show) that takes place in current times and includes racial and/or ethnic minority characters.
Watch an episode of your chosen series (you want look for an episode you can play more than once). Take notes while you watch the episode.
Write a cohesive 750-1000 word essay discussing your content analysis. Your goal is to the answer question prompts below and to incorporate and explain relevant sociological concepts about race and ethnicity as you progress through your essay. (Full out details)
How many minority characters are featured in the episode? What portion of the total cast do they represent? What kind of an impact does the episode have on you as a viewer? How might it shape the perceptions of audience members with regard to race and/or ethnicity?
In what ways are minority characters portrayed? (It’s best to just focus on one or two characters here.) Do the characters uphold certain racial or ethnic stereotypes –or do they challenge them?
Describe instances in which characters display their ethnicity in a situational or symbolic capacity. How does the race and/or ethnicity of characters intersect with other social statuses and or identities (such as class, gender, and/or sexuality)?
Use information from the current module for reference here: To what extent do you think the show reflects the real world?
In what ways may the show help to maintain or perpetuate prejudice and discrimination in society –and in what ways might the show help to counteract prejudice and/or discrimination in society?
