This course examines the role of the media in democratisation in South East Asia. The media have proven forums for popular expression. But they have served the interests of authoritarian states and commercial empires. What is the media's contribution to democracy in South East Asia? We will comprehensively study the media taking into account key micro and macro factors, including media history, legislation, diplomacy, privatisation, regionalisation, journalism, arts, language and audience. We will discuss case-studies from both sides of the divide between 'high' and 'low' culture, including print media, radio, television, Internet, literature, popular music and the fine arts.