American Democracy Now, 2nd Edition (Harrison)

Chapter 10: The Media

Chapter Summary

This chapter outlines the contemporary U.S. media's purposes as a source of information and as a means for individuals to dialog about this information with others. The role of the media as well as its influential ability to shape public opinion and public policy is explored, particularly Internet-related media sources. Critical analysis of the media's bias, accuracy, entertainment role, effect upon individual privacy, and negativity also provides a thorough understanding of this subject. Topics in this discussion include the following:

• The political functions of the media
• A historical view of the press and politics
• The origins and formats of the first electronic media—radio and television
• The role of the Internet
• The media's influence upon public policy
• The potential biases and ideological influence of the media
• Government's regulation of the media, including the impact of new communication formats