Media and Politics in a Globalizing World

Globalization and technological advances have had a dramatic impact on the relationship between media and politics. How can we understand the connection between the two in the present day? Alexa Robertson argues that we cannot understand the power of the one without taking the other into account. This exciting and accessible book provides fresh insight into our contemporary media landscape, adopting a truly comparative global approach.   In Media and Politics in a Globalizing World, Robertson encourages the reader to explore the relationship from different perspectives – those of the politician, the journalist, the activist and the ordinary citizen – and how the relationship between media and politics varies across cultures. Illustrated with contemporary examples throughout, the book weighs up arguments for seeing new developments in terms of change or continuity, as empowering or debilitating, and as promoting or undermining democracy.   Suitable for undergraduates and postgraduates studying politics, media and sociology, it also will be of interest to the general reader wishing to understand the complex role of the media in political life the world over. For additional support and information visit this book's companion website at http:

//mediapolitics.net/

Review

Robertson has authoritatively written a map of the changing media landscape in the contemporary world. She ably examines the limitations of old conceptions of "the media" to understand the profound transformations of the past years. Readers interested in the "mediatization" of society and politics will find this book valuable. A good read, packed with smart insights and encyclopedic knowledge.

Silvio Waisbord, George Washington University

With great intellectual clarity Alexa Robertson addresses the complex dynamics of media, politics and globalization in a fresh and compelling way. Providing both a coherent overview as well as concrete, comparative examples, she writes in an impressively vivid and engaging style. Destined to become a new landmark in the field!

Peter Dahlgren, Lund University

Robertson has written a fascinating and comprehensive book that synthesizes a wide range of theories and frameworks on media -- all in an original and highly accessible format that is well organized and full of interesting and lively examples. The globalization perspective is masterfully presented in ways that students will be able to identify in different national contexts, and the discussions of how politics and power flow in and out of media systems is unparalleled in clarity and insight.W. Lance Bennett, University of Washington