This comprehensive introductory textbook presents a philosophical base upon which to study the media by tracing the relationship between the media and the State, from the controversial thoughts of King Urukagina in the 24th century, B.C. to the present. The concept for the book is consistent with the views reported in the University of Oregon study, Planning for Curricular Change in Journalism Education (1984), which calls for an approach to teaching that combines the history, philosophy, ethics, legal, and regulatory aspects of the media. Selected by CHOICE as an Outstanding Academic Book 1987-1988.