Abstract of "Comparing Political Communication: Theories, Cases, and Challenges" by edited by Frank Esser and Barbara Pfetsch

Aiming to provide a state-of-the-art synthesis of cross-national political communication research, this impressive volume marks the maturation of an important but relatively recent line of scholarship. Contributors to the volume also make a strong case that cross-national analysis of communication systems holds several advantages over country-specific research. Among them, comparative analysis clarifies the extent to which findings from one country can be generalized to others and also broadens our understanding of the many ways that the norms, structures, and social effects of media systems vary across nations. Essential reading for anyone doing work in this area, this volume also offers rich rewards for a broader audience of political communication and comparative politics scholars.