Philosophy/ review/critique - Book Report/Review Example

This statement, however, only refers to the beginning of democratization as a notion. That is to say that the consolidation of emerging democracies is still due. Though the Third World covers Asia, Africa, Latin America and the eastern and southern portions of Africa, the profile of the African political landscape may be considered a benchmark in the evolution and maturity of world politics since it is this region where the process appears to be the slowest as on date. The book ‘Media Role in African Changing Electoral Process: A Political Communication Perspective’ by Nwokeafor and Langmia deals with the general issues that are at stake in strengthening democracies around the world.

It offers thought-provoking insights specifically into the role of mass media and political communication which are pivotal to the spirit of democracy. The book endeavors to set standards with respect to the quality of journalism, election campaign, electoral behavior, political attitudes and the role of the internet in the public sphere all of which point to an enlightened and independent media system committed to democratic principles. The book gives a microscopic view of electoral politics and throws light on the catalytic and instrumental role of the media in the dynamics of representative democracy.

This is of immense significance because, all said and done, the system of elections is all about competition and rivalry, and, democracy, in spite of its noblest intentions and framework, can do more harm than good if the hunger for power becomes the primary motivation to the various political groups that race against each other to capture the seat of power by hook or by crook. A proactive role of the media, therefore, becomes all the more important in educating the electorate and putting in place the foundational paradigms of people’s rule.