Use of Sources in Journalism

This volume describes and analyzes the elite club of individuals that the media approach for "inside information," background, or predictions concerning the outcome of still-unfolding stories. Based on a study examining three major networks' evening newscasts during 1987-1988, it reveals that a small number of white, politically conservative men associated with Washington-based think tanks, former Republican administrations, and private East Coast universities virtually monopolize political discourse in the mass media.

A necessity for the professional journalist's library, Journalism: State of the Art will prove a valuable resource for the student journalist as well. This book summarizes some 200 media studies, many from the most prestigious journal in the trade, Journalism Quarterly. In a paraphrased-synthesis format, and using informal terms, the author arranges the most interesting studies of the 1980s into eight subject headings. Offering the most current data available on media research, this book will prove a great instructional as well as reference tool. It is a must for college journalists, working press and media marketers.

Cohen v. Cowles Media Company changed the course of First Amendment media law. After a quarter century of decisions interpreting the First Amendment to give media organizations preferential treatment, the Supreme Court ruled in 1991 that the Constitution did not give the press immunity from the laws ordinary citizens must obey. The American Bar Association quarterly Communications Lawyer (Spring 1998) calls Cohen a "media law hall of fame case." The author, who was the plaintiff's sole attorney in all phases of the case, provides detailed analysis of the complexities of constitutional litigation and the strategic and tactical considerations involved in formulating constitutional arguments in the Supreme Court and other courts.