Liberal Pluralism

Question 1

What is Liberal Pluralism?

Answer 1

Liberal pluralism is the dominant political perspective linked to capitalism. It values individual choice, freedom, and democracy.

Question 2

Which theory does Liberal Pluralism challenge?

Answer 2

Marxism - it sees society as being made up of competing interest groups, rather than society as dominated by the bourgeoisie.

Question 3

What do Liberal Pluralists argue?

Answer 3

Instead of media conveying hegemonic values or ideologies, a range of views and opinions are passed through the media.

Question 4

What does Liberal Pluralism suggest in terms of democracy?

Answer 4

The media can operate as a crucial element of democracy. This is done through the reporting of events on TV news and in the newspapers, thus keeping the audience informed about the actions of the government and the legal system.

Question 5

What does Liberal Pluralism suggest in terms of perspectives?

Answer 5

Media audiences select and reject from a range of opinions, values and ideologies offered to them by the media. A liberal pluralist view, therefore, offers a more active perception of the audience than a Marxist approach does.