Chapter 8: Media

Question 1

Roles of News Media in a Democracy

Answer 1

Definition: The media should provide accurate information about what the government is doing

Significance: the media has additional protection in the constitution so there are bigger roles that the media plays.

Example: The news media are watchdogs and they let us know how well the government programs are working, or how well the policies are working as well. they have to educate the citizens since we are sovereign.

Question 2

Prior Restraint

Answer 2

Definition: the government can prevent the publication of information, that right is very limited

Significance: It helps protect the nation when it is at war or when the speech would initiate violence

Example: During the second Persian Gulf War, Fox News reporter had a camera man record him and draw a map of where the troops where and then discussed where troops will be going next and the military then removed him immediately exercising it’s right to remain secrecy over troops.

Question 3

News Media Consolidation

Answer 3

Definition: Media ownership is a process whereby fewer individuals or organizations control increasing shares of the mass media

Significance: News coverage priorities are dictated by business leaders rather than journalist so issues that are important for the minority go under-covered.

Example: the American people don’t trust the news that much, they could be biased depending on who they are own by.