The Primary Decision: A Functional Analysis of Debates in Presidential Primaries

by William L. Benoit

Benoit and his colleagues apply the functional theory of political campaign discourse to 25 presidential primary debates beginning with the 1948 American presidential primary campaign. They conclude with the 2000 presidential primaries.

They identify the functions, topics, and targets of attacks, and the results are compared with research on primary TV spots and with general debates. An important resource for scholars and students of American presidential and party elections and political communications.

176 pages, Hardcover

First published December 30, 2001

About the author

William L. Benoit is professor of communication studies at Ohio University.