The eighth edition of Graber's classic text is thoroughly updated to reflect major structural changes that have shaken the world of political news. Graber combines comprehensive coverage and cutting-edge theory as she shows students how the media influence governmental institutions and functions, and in turn how the government shapes the way the media disseminate information. Her broad coverage has three focal points: the media's role in both the public and private sectors; its impact on the attitudes of ordinary Americans and political elites; and the ways in which the news media cover government and politics.

In addition to new photos, cartoons, screen shots, and data, this edition includes:

* major changes in reporting, notably in the 2008 elections, brought about by the Internet;

* the subsequent erosion of the mainstream media's influence on the political agenda;

* new media, including more on blogging, social networking, and political entertainment shows;

* the latest on media laws and recent court cases;

* the evolution and current state of war-time reporting;

* and how the FCC regulates media ownership and content.