An ideal core text, Graber's trusted and balanced volume explores the foundations of the American mass media system. Focussing on political and technological developments, the book shows students how both the media influences governmental institutions and functions, and how the government shapes the way the media works and disseminates information. The book's broad coverage has three focal points: the news media's role in both the public and private sectors; the media's impact on the attitudes and perceptions of ordinary Americans and political elites; and the ways in which the news media cover governmental institutions and political situations. The seventh edition is thoroughly updated to reflect the ever-growing impact of narrow casting and outlets outside of traditional mediums, such as cable television and the Internet. The impact of media consolidation and regulatory policies are explored before turning to how media structures and operations function under normal circumstances, as well as under extraordinary ones, with the war in Iraq and security issues receiving renewed and expanded attention. New material on the recent 2004 campaigns and elections infuse the book, with tables and figures showcasing current data and information.