The exploration of overlooked topics in presidential campaigns reveals critical insights into the functioning of democracy. By examining what issues are highlighted and which are ignored, the book provides a deeper understanding of the political landscape and the effectiveness of campaigns as instruments of self-governance. This analysis challenges readers to consider the implications of these omissions on public discourse and policy-making.
Jamieson and Waldman analyze press coverage and public opinion to examine one of the most interesting periods of modern presidential history--from the summer of 2000 through the aftermath of September 11th.
Offers an account of the transformation of political speechmaking. This book addresses such issues about public speaking as what talents and techniques differentiate eloquent speakers from non-eloquent speakers. It offers insight into public speaking, contemporary characteristics of eloquence, and the future of political discourse in America.
How the conservative opinion media attack the democratic opposition -- How the conservative opinion media defend conservatism -- Conservative opinion media : the players -- The conservative opinion media as opponents of liberalism and custodians of the Reagan narrative -- Effects of an echo chamber -- Speaking to the Republican base : an analysis of conservative media's audience -- Vetting candidates for office -- Stirring emotion to mobilize engagement -- Framing and reframing the mainstream media -- Engendering and reinforcing distrust of mainstream media -- Defining and defending an insular interpretive community -- Balkanization of knowledge and interpretation -- Distortion and polarization -- Conclusion: Echo chamber : cause for concern or celebration?
"The question of how Donald Trump won the 2016 election looms over his presidency. In particular, were the 78,000 voters who gave him an Electoral College victory affected by the Russian trolls and hackers? Trump has denied it. So too has Vladimir Putin. Others cast the answer as unknowable. Drawing on path-breaking work in which she and her colleagues isolated significant communication effects in the 2000 and 2008 presidential campaigns, the eminent political communication scholar Kathleen Hall Jamieson marshals the troll posts, unique polling data, analyses of how the press used the hacked content, and a synthesis of half a century of media effects research to argue that, although not certain, it is probable that the Russians helped elect the 45th president of the United States.In the process, Cyberwar tackles questions that include: How extensive was the troll messaging? What characteristics of the social media platforms did the Russians exploit? Why did the mainstream press rush the hacked content into the citizenry's newsfeeds? Was Clinton telling the truth when she alleged that the debate moderators distorted what she said in the leaked speeches? Did the Russian influence extend beyond social media and news to alter the behavior of FBI director James Comey?"--Dust jacket flap.
Deception, Distraction, and Democracy
In recent years, Americans have become thoroughly disenchanted with political campaigns, especially with ads and speeches that bombard them with sensational images while avoiding significant issues. Now campaign analyst Kathleen Hall Jamieson provides an eye-opening look at the tactics used by political advertisers. Photos and line drawings.