Soft News Goes to War: Public Opinion and American Foreign Policy in the New Media Age : Book Review

In his book "Soft News Goes to War," author Matthew A. Baum offers a thorough investigation into how the media shapes Americans' perspectives on international conflicts. Baum argues that the rise of soft news, which focuses on sensationalism and entertainment rather than critical analysis, has had detrimental effects on the public's comprehension of war and foreign policy. Supported by extensive research, Baum examines the coverage of various conflicts, such as the Gulf War, Kosovo War, and Iraq War, to substantiate his claims.

Baum's research uncovers how soft news outlets prioritize human interest stories and personal narratives, often at the expense of providing contextual analysis and in-depth content. This emphasis on emotional storytelling distorts public understanding by oversimplifying complex international events and overlooking the political and strategic factors at play. By utilizing empirical data and studies, Baum effectively demonstrates the impact of soft news on public opinion and decision-making in foreign policy.

One notable strength of "Soft News Goes to War" is Baum's ability to provide a nuanced analysis of the media landscape. He delves into the motivations and practices of journalists, editors, and news organizations, shedding light on the economic pressures that drive them to prioritize sensationalism and entertainment in order to attract viewers and secure advertising revenue. Baum's examination of the media's coverage of the Iraq War is particularly enlightening, revealing how soft news contributed to the dissemination of misleading narratives regarding the presence of weapons of mass destruction.

Furthermore, Baum explores the role of partisan news outlets and their influence on public opinion during times of conflict. He argues that soft news outlets often align with specific ideological perspectives, reinforcing existing biases and perpetuating polarization in public discourse. This analysis provides insight into the evolving media landscape and the challenges it presents for fostering an informed citizenry.

Overall, "Soft News Goes to War" is a thought-provoking and meticulously researched book that thoroughly addresses the impact of soft news on public understanding of international conflicts. Baum's comprehensive examination of the media landscape emphasizes the need for a more critical and informed public discourse, crucial for both a well-informed citizenry and effective foreign policy decision-making.

What are readers saying?

Matthew A. Baum's book, "Soft News Goes to War," has received a variety of reviews, with an overall positive reception for its insightful analysis of how the media shapes public opinion during times of conflict. While some readers found it dense and challenging to follow, many commend Baum for his thorough research and examination of the media's influence on public perception during wars. His ability to dissect the complex relationship between journalists, government officials, and the public is appreciated, as is his analysis of case studies and historical events.

The book's relevance to the modern age and the rise of infotainment is praised by readers. They find it thought-provoking to consider how sensationalism and entertainment-driven news impact the public's understanding of global affairs.

However, some readers found the book dense and filled with academic jargon, which they felt obscured the clarity of Baum's arguments and made it difficult to engage with the material. Some reviewers also mentioned that the book's focus on American news outlets and conflicts may limit its applicability to a broader international context.

In conclusion, "Soft News Goes to War" by Matthew A. Baum is positively reviewed for its in-depth analysis of the media's role in shaping public opinion during wartime. Although some readers found it challenging to follow due to the dense writing style and potential lack of broader international context, the book's thorough research and examination of case studies make it a valuable resource for understanding the intricate relationship between the media and public perception during times of conflict.