What is the role of the media in modern American government? How has it changed in the last century?

Information is a very powerful tool . One who controls it can manipulate the outcome of most events in society . The media possesses this enviable authority to independently disseminate information on all things significant to everyone . Politics , entertainment , sports health , current events , and government are the facets of civil society that the media needs to cover . It has a significant role in all these aspects to transmit every detail of information to the public . In government , the media plays an even bigger role . It serves as a bridge between government leaders and the

people . The media is tasked with major responsibilities to function as broadcaster , educator , and watchdog . As a broadcaster , the media gathers noteworthy information about every action our government is carrying out . It needs to convey the news with unequivocal objectivity with one major goal- bring the truth to the people . As an educator , the media holds the duty to instruct the public on complex governmental issues . The process and system of government policies and regulations need to be put in plain words so the majority of the citizens will comprehend . This will empower the people and encourage them to uphold their rights and privileges . As a watchdog , the media scrutinizes every decision the government makes . It acts as the eyes and ears of society taking all information into consideration and exposes them to the public for review . The media compels government officials to be always accountable to the people who placed them in their respective positions . The media has not really changed much . Throughout the years , it has remained true to the mission it has set to undertake . The muckrakers of the past and the journalists of present times have stood their ground and remained steadfast . The media has withstood the test of time and continued to dedicate its existence in the service of the people . It has its fair share of triumphs and disappointments . The media has dedicated its whole life in the pursuit of the truth

Works Cited

The Role of Media in Democracy : A Strategic Approach . Technical Publication Series . Jun . 1999 : pg 3 . Center for Democracy and Governance Bureau for Global Programs , Field Support , and Research US Agency for International Development

Paletz , David L . The Media in American Politics : Contents and Consequences . New York : Longman , 1999

Rasky , Susan . Informing Democracy : The Role of Media in Shaping American Policy and Public Opinion . USINFO- The United States Department of State . U .S . Department of State 's Bureau of International Information Programs . 12 Dec . 2004 . The Role of Media in Government...