The Relationship between the Media, the Military, and the Public

The media play an important role in times of conflict. How the media tell the story influences the public. This chapter discusses the relationship between the media, the military, and the public. Topics examined include the historical relations between the press and the military, the impact of embedded reporters during the war in Iraq, how visual images of war impact public support for the war, how media coverage impacts public opinion, and how nontraditional forms of media such as late night comedy and military blogs impact the public's knowledge and attitudes. Keywords: embedded coverage; media/military relationship; war; public opinion