Mormon Media Studies Call for Papers
Apr 18, 2012Academics, practitioners, and students are invited to submit competitive papers or panel proposals about any aspect of Mormons and the media. Papers and panels may be broadly interdisciplinary; international perspectives are encouraged; all rigorous scholarly methodological frameworks and theories are welcome. Submissions (which will be peer–reviewed) should be either full papers (preferred) (approx. 6,000–8,000 words, with 100 word abstract); or extended abstracts (approx. 500 words). Panel proposals must include the following for all panel participants: name, title, expertise on the topic, and short abstract re planned remarks. For all submissions, include in cover letter title, author’s (or panel organizer’s) full name & title, and full contact information. Identifying information should appear only on the cover page. Proposals to make audio and/or visual presentations (incl. short films) are welcome (must include rigorous analysis). Papers recently presented or published elsewhere may be considered (provide details.)
Examples of topics falling under the theme of the conference include but are not limited to:
- Analyses of media content by or about Mormons (textual, rhetorical, thematic, etc.)
- Mormon–produced media (contemporary, historical, international, etc.): Internet, social media, newspapers, magazines, books, television, radio, film, etc.
- Content, producers, and effects of recent and historical depictions of Mormons in news and popular culture
- Mormons, media & politics–U.S. and international
- Mormon media uses and effects, including social media
- Mormon media image and depiction (present & historical)
- Concepts of voice, identity, and community in media by or about Mormons
- Content and effects of LDS public relations, advertising, messaging
- Audience studies: meaning–making; effects; responses; influences; behavior and attitudinal changes
- Institutional LDS perspectives on media; responses and effects
- Mormons as media creators, producers, publishers, inventors, disseminators, editors, writers, etc.; or others in these categories who have produced LDS–related media or content
- Mormon–related film, TV programming, reality show participation, etc.
- Comparative studies (Mormons and media as compared to other religions or institutions)
- Historical, sociological, literary, rhetorical, legal, international, psychological, etc. perspectives re Mormons and media
- Mormon–related entertainment, theater, music, and popular culture productions
Papers presented at the symposium will be given special consideration (at authors’ discretion) for publication in the Journal of Media and Religion
Paper, panel, and presentation proposals must be submitted by July 9, 2012 in Word or PDF formats as an e–mail attachment to Dr. Sherry Baker at: sherry_baker@gyu.edu