How has the formulation of American foreign policy been impacted by the global communications revolution?
Baum: In terms of American foreign policy in particular, one clear effect is that in an environment in which much more information is available through lots of different channels – catering to all different tastes and preferences – it becomes important for leaders to first find their audience and then communicate information in ways that their audience will pay attention to and accept. What does that mean in terms of foreign policy? It probably means less discussion of geopolitics and more discussion of body bags. Stated differently, it means more dramatic, sensationalized representations of what is going on in foreign policy. That concerns communication, but ultimately communication effects policy as well. Certain kinds of policies are easier to frame in accessible ways that are likely to be persuasive. It becomes difficult to sustain longer term support for a foreign policy initiative like a war. You can count on your adversaries to make their arguments against your policies in these
