Press and Foreign Policy: a Study of We Relationship Based on U.S.-china Relations 1935-1950

Abstract

The American press has an obligation to provide the public with information about foreign policy decisions. Traditionally, journalists also offer editorial comment concerning policy developments. The purpose of this research has been to examine the significance of the press as an influence in foreign policy decisions. U.S. foreign policy regarding China during the 1930s and 1940s has been used as a case study because American journalists did try to influence policy during that period. The study has been enlightening in terms of providing an illustration of the impact of journalists on policy during an emotional political debate. The Oklahoma State University Political Science Department has been most supportive of my work during the course of this study. I wish especially to thank Professor Harold V. Sare for the encouragement and advice I so needed, and for sharing his expertise on the Far East with me. Thanks also to Dr. William M. Randle, Jr., of Phillips University's Language and Communications Department, for starting me off in an exciting new direction in life.