Last Rights: Revisiting *Four Theories of the Press*

by William E Berry, Sandra Braman, Clifford G. Christians, Thomas Guback, Steve J Helle

Overview

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. 

Contributors: William E. Berry, Sandra Braman, Clifford Christians, Thomas G. Guback, Steven J. Helle, Louis W. Liebovich, John C. Nerone, and Kim B. Rotzoll

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780252064708
Publisher:	University of Illinois Press
Publication date:	08/01/1995
Series:	The History of Media and Communication
Pages:	224
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.25(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

John C. Nerone is a professor emeritus of communications at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is the author of Violence Against the Press: Policing the Public Sphere in U.S. History and coauthor of The Form of News: A History.