They prefer to use it as consumers looking for entertainment, information and opportunities to socialize. Their book, part of Sage Publications' Contemporary American Politics series, takes a broad view of all political aspects of the Internet. With presidential campaigns in full swing right now, both authors are naturally paying close attention to how the Internet is being employed. What they've found doesn't veer far from other recent campaigns they've studied - established political forces continue to dominate, even while absorbing the Web into their efforts. But there are advantages to be taken advantage of.
Campaigns can save considerable communication costs and they can use the Internet for organization.
Traditional media buys. McCain's fund raising is showing one variation on Internet use the authors find interesting. Beyond politics, accessing government services is one area where the Internet is having an impact. Government agencies have moved into the business of setting up their own web sites. Common transactions like license renewals have been made simpler for everyone involved.