This program meets on the USC Columbia campus October 12, 2026 and October 19, 2026, 6-8 PM.

Watching Ourselves: Media, Surveillance, and the Performance of Identity is a two part community series that looks at how visibility becomes power.  From reality TV to social media, we live in systems that constantly watch - and shape - us.  This course will examine how algorithms guide attention and how we internalize surveillance in our everyday lives.  Together, we will unpack how identity, performance, and control instersect in the digitial age.

Through short lectures and guided discussion, this course we will relate fictional pop culture to real life applications and concerns. 

This course is conversation-focused, accessible, and designed for anyone interested in politics, technology, work, culture, and the stories that shape how we understand society today.

Once you have paid in full, you will receive a course reminder email approximately one week before the class starts with the course location and directions. If at any time you have any questions, please call us at 803-777-9444 or email pep@mailbox.sc.edu.

Please note: Space is limited and your seat in the course is not confirmed until payment is received. Additionally, payment must be received at least seven days prior to the start of the course.