Sending a political message: lessons from the American 1790s
Article Abstract:
The study of political communication should involve an understanding of both political messages and the national political structure. The American founders in the 1790s were opposed to political organizations, parties, and campaigns. Public communications were distilled through government officials who believed themselves capable of deciding on matters of public good. Framers of the Constitution recognized this as the wrong way to run a democratic government. This period offers a lesson concerning the construct of the public sphere and public participation as political communication.
Publication Name: Media, Culture & Society
Subject: Mass communications
ISSN: 0163-4437
Year: 1997
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The meaning of public opinion: citizens' constructions of political reality
Article Abstract:
Little is known about how ordinary citizens view the concept of public opinion. Interviews with 21 Americans were conducted to assess their views public opinion, how it is formed and the role of the media in changing or shaping it. Eight members of a state Libertarian Party organization, eight left-wing political activists concerned with Central America, and five individuals who were not politically active were interviewed in depth. Most were knowledgeable about public opinion polls, yet were sceptical about the utility of 'public opinion.'
Publication Name: Media, Culture & Society
Subject: Mass communications
ISSN: 0163-4437
Year: 1993
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New trends in French political communication: the 1995 presidential elections
Article Abstract:
France's 1990 law prohibiting paid advertising three months before elections heavily influenced the 1995 presidential campaign strategies and created a greater dependence on public opinion surveys by the media and politicians. The new law forced politicians to resort to old fashioned campaign styles such as public meetings. A type of primary system within France's two main parties also appeared as a result of the new law and changing election style.
Publication Name: Media, Culture & Society
Subject: Mass communications
ISSN: 0163-4437
Year: 1997
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