Customer Reviews

From Art to Politics: How Artistic Creations Shape Political Conceptions

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The level of ignorance incorporated in writing a book review -on political science- after reading 2 paragraphs is difficult to swallow without getting cynical about humanity. The only solace I find in the previous review is the irony in his words. This idiot is PRECISELY who Edelman is writing about in the quotes he used for his own shameful review.

Murray Edelman is a respected name in the field of political science. I used this book (along with some 20 others, including Walter Lippmann, Edward Bernays, Daniel Bell, et al) in writing my honors thesis. And yes, I actually READ THE BOOK. The difference I find in Edelman is his ability to make observations about human nature (en mass) without inferring popular contemporary opinions (regardless of the period he is writing in or about). I also read Edelman's "Constructing the Political Spectacle." His ideas "apply." Edelman is very honest in his observations without getting too pragmatic or showing outrageous bias (as political analysts often do). This is how and why he has earned the respect of academics in the field. His critiques are not limited to any one facet of our culture (of course, one would have to read more than a couple freakin' paragraphs to recognize that, wouldn't they?

If you're looking for biased "pundit" blabber that promotes particular ideologies, this book is not for you. If you're interested in politics for what it truly IS, without the need to shore up your own political slant (left or right) this book is a very enlightening read. And the amazing part is that the book accomplishes this without being too esoteric.

As a companion to this book I would highly recommend Walter Lippmann's "Public Opinion."

Hey basshunter, how about leaving book reviews to those who actually READ BOOKS.

I haven't bought this book, nor do I intend to. Especially after reading the first two paragraphs of Chapter 1.
To blame the shaping of political conceptions on "assumption, bias and the news media," tells me instantly that
this is going to be a "slam book." The author seems to have overlooked a GIANT shaper of political conceptions--namely books! Politically inspired views of one party candidate/leader/etc. attacking an opposing party candidate/
leader/etc.
Voters are described by Walter Lippmann as "a bewildered herd," whom political parties and their candidates only want the votes to be cast their way, and expect the populace to go back to the tv, drink beer and watch sporting events.
Just leave the driving to us attitude.
No media slamming, please.