In the past 25 years, electronic media, mobile devices, and algorithmically optimized information networks have intensified how humans have engaged with mediated information. This course examines the collateral effects of this phenomenon on our habits, norms, beliefs, and cognitive processing. Students will study the historical, political, and theoretical narrative that has led to questions about the construction of social worlds, the construct of reality, and the legitimacy of information. A special focus will be made in studying the implications of synthetic deepfake and AI-driven text generating systems in accelerating these effects.

This course includes topics and emerging areas in computing. Barring duplication of subject the course may be repeated for credit.

Examine the societal and organizational impacts of cybersecurity policy in our interconnected world that is increasingly dependent on advanced technologies and systems for communications and control. Explore the components of information systems and control systems and review the history and development of cybersecurity. Gain an appreciation of policy as one tool for managing risk, and start to consider the challenges of cybersecurity policy-making.

Discover the fundamental concepts and practices for developing and drafting organizational policy, including related documents to support implementation. Explore how to communicate policies to internal and external audiences (in both written and oral communications). Learn how to incorporate organizational priorities and mandates into managerial policies. Case studies are primarily based in security studies, but other professional fields are welcomed.