Spiral of Cynicism: Press and the Public Good - Hardcover

The authors of this work aim to provide conclusive evidence that the way the American news and broadcast media cover political issues and events directly causes increased voter cynicism and non-participation. Jamieson and Cappella examine how the media cover both political campaigns and significant legislation (the passage of health care reform). The focus on the game of politics, rather than its substance, fuels a cycle of cynicism, trapping media, politicians and voters. Giving reason to hope, the authors provide detailed discussion of what they think the media could do to halt the cycle of cynicism. This book is intended for scholars and students of politics and communication studies, particularly of the press and media, and journalists.