Role of the Media in Politics
Role of the Media in Politics
Traditional Media in Politics
- Broadcasting balance: All broadcasters are legally required to maintain breadth and variety of opinion in topics of political controversy.
- Party Political Broadcasts (PPBs): Allocates airtime to parties to express their political views.
- News and current affairs programs: Shows like BBC’s Question Time or ITV’s This Morning often focus on political issues and host politicians.
New Media in Politics
- Social media and online platforms: Enabled greater access to information, as well as two-way communication between politicians and the public.
- Blogs and vlogs: Given individuals ability to comment on political events and even shape political debate.
- Digital fundraising: Used by politicians and political parties to raise funds for campaigns.
Media Bias and Influence
- Partisan bias: Newspaper endorsements and noticeable leanings can directly influence voting behaviour.
- Agenda-setting and framing: Media can shape public opinion by deciding which issues receive attention and how they are presented.
- Negative campaigning: Media commonly focus on negatives of politicians, which can contribute to public cynicism about politics.
Media Regulation
- Ofcom: Regulator for UK’s broadcasting industries, ensuring standards and addressing complaints.
- Press Complaints Commission (PCC): Now replaced with Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), ensures newspaper industry maintains certain standards.
Note the key words such as broadcasting balance, partisan bias, agenda-setting and framing, Ofcom, and IPSO.