NEWSPAPERS AND POLITICAL AWARENESS

Theory: The theory of print superiority is examined as it relates to t he role of local newspapers in facilitating information acquisition ab out U.S. elections. Hypothesis: The appearance of print superiority re flects variance in the characteristics of different news mediums' audi ences rather than a unique capability of local newspapers to convey in formation. Method: Capitalizing on Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania's eight-mo nth newspaper strike in 1992, survey data from the Pittsburgh and Clev eland areas are compared via a quasi-experimental method. Results: Exp osure to a major local newspaper does not enhance knowledge of nationa l or international politics, but contributes to self-perceived knowled ge regarding local political campaigns. Characteristics of respondents , including education and prior political knowledge, are the strongest predictors of information acquisition concerning national and interna tional events.