Democracy & the media

• Explain the difference between the media informing the public or influencing the public. (4 marks)

  • It is important for democracy that accurate reporting keeps citizens well informed. When the media informs, it is giving the public the facts and reporting what is happening without expressing an opinion .When the media influences the public, it is trying to persuade them to see things in a particular way. It involves giving an opinion or presenting information in a biased way.
• Role of Media:

  • Informs public, investigates issues, holds power accountable
  • Free press is essential in democracy
• Media Types:

  • Newspapers, social media, TV, radio, magazines, books, websites
• Freedom of Expression:

  • Based on Article 19 of Universal Declaration of Human Rights
  • Allows citizens to stay informed and hold power to account
• Limitations:

  • Governments may limit media to protect national security or order
• Influencing and Reporting:

  • Accurate reporting informs public
  • Influences opinions
  • Reports must distinguish fact from biased opinion
• Public Interest Reporting:

  • Investigates and exposes issues
  • Scrutinises government actions
• Case Study: MPs’ Expenses Scandal (2009):

  • MPs claimed excessive/unjustified expenses
  • Media exposed misuse of taxpayer money
  • Led to accountability and rule changes