1. World problems
  2. Excessive state control of communications mass media

Excessive state control of communications mass media

  • State monopoly of broadcasting facilities

Nature

Governments step into the mass media for three reasons: (1) it is ideologically and politically helpful for government to use the mass media to communicate with and influence citizens; (2) in many cases only the public sector can provide the massive financial outlay required especially as start-up costs where new media technology is initiated; and (3) government has a moral responsibility to monitor the quality of information, entertainment, culture and education offered. This necessary involvement too often, however, becomes a stranglehold when government sponsorship prohibits the free competition of alternative opinions and programming.

Background

States have been playing a growing role in orienting, controlling, organizing and dispensing communication activities dealing either with conditions for communication in a country (which is its main prerogative), or with the delivery of messages and contents (which is necessary in particular circumstances, but may also lead to restrictions). Thus, government responsibilities are, on the one hand, discharged through: legislation regulating rights and responsibilities in various fields of communication; the inclusion of resources for communication in overall planning; regulation of conditions governing media ownership and communication activities; attribution of facilities (such as distribution of frequencies) for telecommunications; control of communication channels and carriers; direct public ownership of media and other means of communication, and, on the other hand, through direct involvement in various communication activities, by creating national, regional and local public bodies; measures aiming to prevent the spread of distorted views and the abuse of communication practices; and limitation of imported contents and messages.

Claim

Excessive state control of communications mass media is a grave threat to democracy and individual freedom. It stifles dissent, manipulates public opinion, and undermines the fundamental right to free expression. When governments dictate the narrative, citizens are deprived of diverse perspectives and critical information, leading to an uninformed populace. This erosion of media independence not only endangers civil liberties but also fosters an environment ripe for authoritarianism. We must fiercely protect media freedom to safeguard our democratic values.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Counter-claim

Excessive state control of communications mass media is often overstated as a problem. In reality, such regulation ensures national security, promotes social stability, and protects citizens from harmful misinformation. By guiding the narrative, governments can foster a more informed public and prevent chaos. The notion that unrestricted media is inherently beneficial ignores the potential for manipulation and divisiveness. Ultimately, a balanced approach to media control is essential for a cohesive society, making this issue less critical than often portrayed.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Broader

Narrower

Aggravates

Aggravated by

Political fear
Yet to rate

Reduces

Reduced by

Related

Strategy

Value

Self-control
Yet to rate
Monopoly
Yet to rate
Excess
Yet to rate

SDG

Sustainable Development Goal #16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions

Metadata

Database
World problems
Type
(D) Detailed problems
Biological classification
N/A
Subject
  • Communication » Broadcasting
  • Communication » Communication
  • Communication » Media
  • Cybernetics » Control
  • Government » Nation state » Nation state
  • Content quality
    Presentable
     Presentable
    Language
    English
    1A4N
    D4597
    DOCID
    11445970
    D7NID
    142293
    Last update
    Feb 4, 2024