Seeing the Bigger Picture

Mark Sachleben is Assistant Professor of Political Science at Shippensburg University. He teaches classes in international relations, comparative politics, global governance, and human rights. He is the author of International Human Rights: Considering Patterns of Participation, 1948-2000 (2004) and he has published articles and chapters on pedagogy and comparative and international politics. Dr. Sachleben received his PhD from Miami University (Ohio) in 2003.Kevan M. Yenerall is Professor of Political Science at Clarion University of Pennsylvania. He teaches courses in American politics and institutions an public policy. He has published articles and chapters on the presidency, parties and elections, the media, and human rights. Dr. Yenerall serves as a faculty leader and liaison with the Washington Center for Internship and Academic Seminars. He received his PhD from Miami University (Ohio).

«In every chapter of this update to their superb first edition, Sachelben and Yenerall demonstrate the astounding scope of their mastery over film history, pop culture and politics. Whether using Birth of a Nation and The Kids Are All Right to discuss civil rights, or Bugs Bunny and Alexander Nevsky to analyze war, the authors weave political science with careful film interpretation and history. Scholars, undergrads and film buffs can prepare for a ‘thrill ride’ of challenge, enlightenment and intellectual amusement. Break out your popcorn and Milk Duds!» (Scott L. McLean, Professor of Political Science, Quinnipiac University)«Not just a pop culture flight of fancy – these authors combine insightful film/television criticism and rigorous engagement with political theory. They adroitly demonstrate how popular screens reflect and frame how we understand and experience pivotal political issues – civil rights, labor controversy, and U.S.-style political campaigning, to name a few.» (Charlton D. McIlwain, Associate Professor of Media, Culture & Communication, New York University)«Serious scholarly attention to popular culture arrived far too late in the social sciences, and Sachleben and Yenerall are helping to fill the gap. They put forth sophisticated yet accessible analysis of a wide array of film and television programming in a way that piques interest and encourages a persistent and critical ‘reading’ of these important elements of our political socialization.» (Stephen Maynard Caliendo, Professor of Political Science, North Central College)