The Functions of Journalism in America

Political Function

Press is the watchdog of government Right of free press = obligation to

provide the public with information upon which to base political decisions

Good news covers in details the activities of the government

Watches for scandal and wrongdoing Scrutinizes use of public money and so

forth

Economic Function Public needs information about

products, goods and services in addition to events

Business, industrial and agricultural news conveys this info; so does advertising

Sentry Function Press watches society’s horizons; must

report what is happening today and what is likely to happen tomorrow

Lets us know what to look forward to in the near future

Record-Keeping Function

Mass media should reflect an accurate record of local, national and world news

The first draft of history

Entertainment Function

News provides diversion as well as information

This function includes the comics, entertaining feature stories, and

pictures Appeal to all ages and

interests

Social Function

News replaces simpler relationships of past

“Dear Abby” is an example of the social function of the news

Marketplace Function Marketplace: Press is forum for new

ideas; the marketplace of ideas Press conveys concerns of its

audience, hopefully spurring action

Agenda-Setting Function

Main idea: While journalists don’t tell us what to think, they do tell us what to think about.

Do not dictate our thoughts, but determine what we talk about as individuals

Who sets the agenda for the media?