Syria and Turkey differ in styles of government and patterns of media use. Syria is governed by a military junta; factionalism, intolerance of opposition, and the lack of any options except the use of force to gain political power, have inhibited political stability. Syrian newspapers have low credibility and are characterized by low standards, few readers and extreme partisanship. Radio is by far the most important mass media in Syria, and radio listening is an important social activity in rural and urban settings. In Turkey, some political stability has come from the national commitment to modernization, supported by broadly-based political parties and the rising middle class. Turkish newspapers are partisan, and are read for a point of view instead of for unbiased information. Turkish radio is a government monopoly and is taken seriously by urban and rural audiences. Almost every village owns at least one radio, often located in the central coffeehouse or barbershop. (MG)