From Reuters to Donkey Kong, from Bollywood to Bertelsmann, international communication has been transformed in the late-20th century. As the political, economic and technological contexts within which the media operate become increasingly global, students need to develop a clear understanding of how these extraordinary changes affect the world we live in. This comprehensive survey charts these developments and the way in which they affect media and communication studies. It explores their significance for the established domains of institutions, texts and audiences, drawing on an international range of case studies. There are graphs, summaries and questions, along with advice on key reading.