What is the role of the media and the free press?

Question 1

What is the role of the media in a modern society?

Answer 1

• Inform the public about what is going on and provide information on complex issues in such a way that they are accessible to their readership.
• Encourage public debates on major issues of public concern.
• Uncover abuses of power and challenge decision makers and press for changes.
• Campaign and create and support public opinion in regard to issues and injustices.
• Speak to power so that those who hold positions of power (political, economic and social) are both accountable and aware of public opinion and also ensure that a range of political views and opinions are made available to the public.

Question 2

What are the responsibilities of the media towards society?

Answer 2

• Ensure that there is a balance between fact, analysis and opinion when reporting news.
• Work in a professional manner ensuring their reporting is as accurate as possible.
• React/set the political agenda by explaining issues to allow the public to understand and participate in the debate.
• Publish corrections and be accountable for what they publish
• Ensure that the public interest is a priority both what is and what is not published, for example not to print information that could be harmful to national security or endanger individuals.

Question 3

What must society ensure exists so that there is freedom of the press?

Answer 3

• Establish a legal and taxation framework that allows the media to thrive/survive.
• Ensure that there is a legal and regulatory that encourages a range of views (plurality) and address issues such as the concentration of media ownership and ownership by non-UK individuals or companies for example:
• Encourage both private media and public media
• Ensure that all political parties have access to the media especially during the elections.

Question 4

How many worldwide viewers does Facebook have?

Answer 4

1.79 Billion

Question 5

In 2017 who was the most followed person on Twitter?

Answer 5

Katy Perry with 100, 417, 176

Question 6

What are people most likely to watch the news or the comparison between the two largest soaps in the UK?

Answer 6

The comparison of Corrie and EastEnders.