Description
Book Synopsis* Introductory textbook on a major area of media and journalism studies. * Outlines the research across the key stages of the acquisition of information, formation of attitudes and opinions and to the consequences of all these elements for participation in public life. * Written by a highly experienced author team.
Trade Review"A well-written book which shows that the classical triangle of news media, politics and public opinion still has a strong mutual influence."
Political Studies Review"This book is a masterful treatment of the relationship between news and public opinion. The authors examine the changing media environment, including entertainment news and blogs. The book looks at both process and effects (outcomes). The book is an important contribution to the literature on this vitally important topic."
William Benoit, Ohio University "Unquestionably, The News and Public Opinion would be my first choice if asked to recommend a single book about the interface between news stories and the public's political views. This brief study is amazingly comprehensive in its range of topics and depth of analysis. The clear, smooth prose makes it a joy to read."
Doris Graber, University of Illinois at Chicago
"This concise and readable volume by one of the founders of media agenda-setting research and his noted colleagues reviews an impressive amount of research on today's changing communication environment and its influence on public opinion, knowledge, and political participation. As such, it will be valuable and accessible to all interested in these subjects for years to come!"
David Weaver, Indiana University-Bloomington
Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION
Chapter 1. What Is Public Opinion?
PART ONE: THE NEWS MEDIA
Chapter 2. A Changing Communication Environment
Chapter 3. Reporting the News
Chapter 4. Trust in the News
PART TWO: SETTING THE CIVIC STAGE
Chapter 5. The Audiences for News
Chapter 6. Focusing Public Attention
Chapter 7. Learning from the News
Chapter 8. Forming Opinions
Chapter 9. Tone of the News
Chapter 10. Political Behavior
Chapter 11. What Citizens Bring to the News
Chapter 12. News Influence on Civic Life
PART THREE: COMING TO JUDGMENT
Chapter 13. Assessing the Role of News in Civic Life
Bibliography
Index