technological changes, media technologies, campaign techniques, and
research techniques. ⁶ In a survey of the state of the field in 1983, the
same authors and Lynda Kaid found additional, more specific areas of
concern such as the presidency, political polls, public opinion, debates,
and advertising to name a few. ⁷ Since the first study, they also noted a
shift away from the rather strict behavioral approach.

Today, Dan Nimmo and David Swanson assert that "political com-
munication has developed some identity as a more or less distinct do-
main of scholarly work." ⁸ The scope and concerns of the area have
further expanded to include critical theories and cultural studies. While
there is no precise definition, method, or disciplinary home of the area
of inquiry, its primary domain is the role, processes, and effects of
communication within the context of politics broadly defined.

In 1985, the editors of Political Communication Yearbook: 1984 noted that
"more things are happening in the study, teaching, and practice of
political communication than can be captured within the space limita-
tions of the relatively few publications available." ⁹ In addition, they
argued that the backgrounds of "those involved in the field [are] so
varied and pluralist in outlook and approach, . . . it [is] a mistake to
adhere slavishly to any set format in shaping the content." ¹⁰ And more
recently, Swanson and Nimmo called for "ways of overcoming the un-
happy consequences of fragmentation within a framework that respects,
encourages, and benefits from diverse scholarly commitments, agendas,
and approaches." ¹¹

In agreement with these assessments of the area and with gentle
encouragement, Praeger established in 1988 the series entitled "Praeger
Series in Political Communication." The series is open to all qualitative
and quantitative methodologies as well as contemporary and historical
studies. The key to characterizing the studies in the series is the focus
on communication variables or activities within a political context or
dimension. Scholars from the disciplines of communication, history,
political science, and sociology have participated in the series.

I am, without shame or modesty, a fan of the series. The joy of serving
as its editor is in participating in the dialogue of the field of political
communication and in reading the contributors' works. I invite you to
join me.

Robert E. Denton, Jr.

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