The media and foreign policy

Technological advances in television and reporting have created a new era of media in which viewers can follow events around the globe, often as they unfold in real time. The widespread availability of information and openness inherent in this new global media has many advantages. With these benefits, however, also comes a potential for the manipulation of the press and of foreign policy. While live coverage of world events may make it easier for policy makers and viewers to remain on top of global conflicts and current events, foreign governments can also use the media to pass on propaganda or to intentionally subvert American foreign policy. Increasing competition between news outlets can also give rise to concerns that sensational journalism or the search for a dramatic story could eventually begin to drive the foreign policy agenda rather than reflect it. In this new age of information, what effect does the media have on the conduct of diplomacy, and is this coverage beneficial or detrimental to American foreign policy? Featuring former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Donald McHenry, Karen Elliott House of the Wall Street Journal, and Steven Roberts of the U.S. News and World Report.Examines the relationship between the media and the conduct of foreign policy