Much is known about the media's role in conflict, but far less is known about the media's role in peace. Graham Spencer's study addresses this deficiency by providing a comparative analysis of reporting conflicts from around the world and examining media receptiveness to the development of peace. This book establishes an argument for the need to rethink journalistic responsibility in relation to peace and interrogates the consequences of news coverage that emphasizes conflict over peace.
'Graham Spencer has written a scholarly review of the relationship of the media to violent conflict over recent decades. From Vietnam to Iraq, via Rwanda, the Balkans and beyond, he explores the way the media has helped and, alas, mostly hindered efforts for peace. Wrestling with the dilemma of 'objectivity' versus 'peace journalism', he asks whether the media can ever play a constructive role in conflict resolution. A very valuable contribution in an emerging field of study.' - Anthony Borden, Executive Director, Institute for War and Peace Reporting, UK
'Graham Spencer presents a compelling argument that the news media are political players with political responsibilities. This thoughtful book will be a valuable resource for anyone interested in how journalism affects nations' approaches to war and peace.' - Philip Seib, Professor of Journalism and Public Diplomacy, University of Southern California, USA
'A timely and serious contribution on the media's role in peace and peace processes - something which has not, until now, received the attention it deserves from the conflict resolution community.' - Antonia Potter, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Geneva, Switzerland
'Graham Spencer presents a compelling argument that the news media are political players with political responsibilities. This thoughtful book will be a valuable resource for anyone interested in how journalism affects nations' approaches to war and peace.' - Philip Seib, Professor of Journalism and Public Diplomacy, University of Southern California, USA
'A timely and serious contribution on the media's role in peace and peace processes - something which has not, until now, received the attention it deserves from the conflict resolution community.' - Antonia Potter, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Geneva, Switzerland