This book assesses the consequences of new information technologies for American democracy in a way that is theoretical and also historically grounded. The author argues that new technologies have produced the fourth in a series of 'information revolutions' in the US, stretching back to the founding. Each of these, he argues, led to important structural changes in politics. After re-interpreting historical American political development from the perspective of evolving characteristics of information and political communications, the author evaluates effects of the Internet and related new media. The analysis shows that the use of new technologies is contributing to 'post-bureaucratic' political organization and fundamental changes in the structure of political interests. The author's conclusions tie together scholarship on parties, interest groups, bureaucracy, collective action, and political behavior with new theory and evidence about politics in the information age.

This book provides a comprehensive evaluation of the Internet in American democracy.
Reviews
'A fascinating and timely analysis ... this is a cutting edge book that should be read by all interested in the evolution of policy-making.' The Scientific and Medical Network
'Bruce Bimber's book is very much a product of the new, post-dotcom, sobriety, but rather than simply write a backlash work that rubbishes any idea of transformation, he has managed to combine insights from US media history, political communication, public administration and democratic theory to produce a genuinely novel interpretation of the role played by what he terms the 'information infrastructure' in bringing about political change ... a highly original and provocative interpretation of the past, present and likely future of American politics ... should inspire political scientists of all kinds.' Public Administration


Awards
Winner of Don K. Price Award.



Book Information
ISBN 9780521800679
Author Bruce Bimber
Format Hardback
Page Count 286
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 590g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 21mm