Last Rights: Revisiting Four Theories of the Press

by William E Berry, Sandra Braman (Contributor), Clifford G. Christians (Contributor)

Though subjected to years of criticism,  Four Theories of the Press  remains a core text in communications. Its influence on the field, impact on generations of journalists, and ability to spark debate on why the press acts as it does continue to make it an oft-quoted source and classroom staple.  In  Last Rights , eight communications scholars critique and expand on the classic text. The authors argue that  Four Theories  spoke to and for a world beset by a cold war ended long ago. At the same time, they praise the book for offering an alternative view of the press and society and as a useful tool for helping scholars and citizens alike grapple with contradictions in classical liberalism. They also raise important questions about the Internet and other major changes in communications systems and society since the original publication of  Four Theories .  William E. Berry, Sandra Braman, Clifford Christians, Thomas G. Guback, Steven J. Helle, Louis W. Liebovich, John C. Nerone, and Kim B. Rotzoll

224 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1995

Reviews

[Geoff]

Journalism grad school mires you in some truly forgettable theory texts. I'm looking back at what I highlighted and underlined, and I don't think I could tell you what any of my notes in the margins are even talking about.