New Media for a New China is a timely introduction to the current state of the mass media in the People's Republic of China. This awakening giant is going through tremendous social, economic, and political changes. Some see the 21st century as "China's century" because of the nation's unprecedented growth. Despite these upheavals, comparatively little has been published about its media and their role in this transformation.

Bringing together scholars from both the US and China, New Media for a New China analyses the diverse roles that China's media play within the Chinese juggernaut. China is vast and so are its communications - more computers, more emails, more cell phone messages, more films and music videos, and larger audiences for more television programs. Like media the world over, China's media are intrinsic to all its challenges, changes, and struggles. Whether by cable or by satellite, there are messages that are threatening the existing social order.

Looking at media in China as part of the global communication system, New Media for a New China gives a much-needed overview on the growing role that they do and will play in the 21st century.