, COM3707 Assignment 2 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester 2
2024 - DUE 13 September 2024 ; 100% TRUSTED Complete,
trusted solutions and explanations.
Question 1 1.1 Critically discuss three of the six normative media theories
that influence the making of policy for the media and the three normative
terms that can be used in democracies to reassess these media theories.
(25) 1.1 Discuss professional media ethics with specific reference to
professionalisation and the influence of the sociopolitical structure. (20) [45]
1.1: Normative Media Theories
1. Normative Media Theories
Normative media theories are frameworks that suggest how media should function
in society and how media policies should be structured. They are used to guide
media policy and practice. Here are three key normative media theories:
1. Social Responsibility Theory
o Description: This theory posits that the media have a responsibility to
serve the public good. It emphasizes the media's role in providing
accurate and fair information, promoting public debate, and ensuring
that a diverse range of voices is heard. It is a response to the perceived
failures of the free press to serve the public interest.
o Criticism: Critics argue that it can lead to government overreach and
censorship, as defining what constitutes “public good” can be
subjective and susceptible to political influence.
2. Libertarian Theory
o Description: The libertarian theory advocates for minimal
government intervention in the media. It upholds the principle of
freedom of speech and press, asserting that a free marketplace of ideas
will lead to truth and democratic accountability.
o Criticism: This theory can lead to the proliferation of misinformation
and the marginalization of minority voices if not balanced by some
form of regulation or oversight.
3. Authoritarian Theory
o Description: According to this theory, the media should support and
advance the policies of the state. It is often associated with regimes
where the government exerts significant control over the media to
maintain political power and suppress dissent.
2024 - DUE 13 September 2024 ; 100% TRUSTED Complete,
trusted solutions and explanations.
Question 1 1.1 Critically discuss three of the six normative media theories
that influence the making of policy for the media and the three normative
terms that can be used in democracies to reassess these media theories.
(25) 1.1 Discuss professional media ethics with specific reference to
professionalisation and the influence of the sociopolitical structure. (20) [45]
1.1: Normative Media Theories
1. Normative Media Theories
Normative media theories are frameworks that suggest how media should function
in society and how media policies should be structured. They are used to guide
media policy and practice. Here are three key normative media theories:
1. Social Responsibility Theory
o Description: This theory posits that the media have a responsibility to
serve the public good. It emphasizes the media's role in providing
accurate and fair information, promoting public debate, and ensuring
that a diverse range of voices is heard. It is a response to the perceived
failures of the free press to serve the public interest.
o Criticism: Critics argue that it can lead to government overreach and
censorship, as defining what constitutes “public good” can be
subjective and susceptible to political influence.
2. Libertarian Theory
o Description: The libertarian theory advocates for minimal
government intervention in the media. It upholds the principle of
freedom of speech and press, asserting that a free marketplace of ideas
will lead to truth and democratic accountability.
o Criticism: This theory can lead to the proliferation of misinformation
and the marginalization of minority voices if not balanced by some
form of regulation or oversight.
3. Authoritarian Theory
o Description: According to this theory, the media should support and
advance the policies of the state. It is often associated with regimes
where the government exerts significant control over the media to
maintain political power and suppress dissent.
