The Idea of Public Journalism

This volume offers a critical and constructive examination of the claims of public journalism, the controversial movement aimed at getting the press to promote and indeed improve--not merely report on--the quality of public life. From leading contributors, original essays refine the terms of the debate by situating it within a broad cultural, historical, and philosophical framework. Exploring the movement's promise as well as its problems, the book sheds light on vital issues of political power, freedom of expression, democratic participation, and press responsibility.

Theodore L. Glasser is professor of communication and director of the Graduate Program in Journalism at Stanford University. His work has appeared in a variety of publications, including Critical Studies in Mass Communication, Journal of Communication, Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly, Nieman Reports, The Quill, and The New York Times Book Review. Custodians of Conscience: Investigative Journalism and Public Virtue, written with James Ettema, was published in 1998 by Columbia University Press.

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His previous publications include Public Opinion and the Communication of Consent, coedited with Charles T. Salmon.