I have an assignment for you. I am attaching some powerpoints to help and your text will also help you. Any questions, let me know. Media theory question: Connect a media theory we’ve discussed to the press theories we covered. I am including the powerpoint about media press theories. Doing additional research on any terms or theories will result in extra points. As long as the work is cited in APA, MLA or some other form that allows full citation. ONLY ACADEMIC sources are acceptable for media theory assignments though there are exceptions for relevant news items!!

QUESTION

I have an assignment for you. I am attaching some powerpoints to help and your text will also help you.

Any questions, let me know.

Media theory question:

Connect a media theory we’ve discussed to the press theories we covered.

I am including the powerpoint about media press theories. Doing additional research on any terms or theories will result in extra points.

As long as the work is cited in APA, MLA or some other form that allows full citation. ONLY ACADEMIC sources are acceptable for media theory assignments though there are exceptions for relevant news items!!

1300-1500 WORDS required.

Your assignment:

1. You work for the leader, whether a governor or a president, and your candidate to stay in power. Using at least one media theory, explain which press theory you would like to see as the law of the land. Don’t worry about the constitution for this answer or possible reactions from the population.

Just use your knowledge of media theory and propose to the candidate you are working for which press theory you would mandate and which media theory you would use to explain it.

Extra points if you utilize a theory from the text we have not covered yet.

Make sure you define the media theory and press theory in your own words.

2. You are a citizen who wants to be informed by the media. You want unbiased, fair information to be an informed citizen. Utilize a media theory to explain which press theory would work best. Explain your answer clearly.

ANSWER

Exploring Media Theory and Press Theories in the Context of Political Power

Introduction

In this assignment, we will delve into the relationship between media theory and press theories, focusing on the implications they have for political power. We will address two perspectives: one from the standpoint of a political strategist working for a candidate seeking to stay in power, and the other as a concerned citizen striving for unbiased and fair information. By employing relevant media theories, we will explore the potential impact on press theories and their suitability for these scenarios.

Media Theory and Press Theory: Perspectives of a Political Strategist

As a political strategist aiming to ensure the continued power of my candidate, I would propose the implementation of the Agenda-Setting Theory as the press theory that should govern the media landscape (Wikipedia contributors, 2023). The Agenda-Setting Theory asserts that the media has the power to influence the salience and prominence of issues in the public’s mind by selectively emphasizing certain topics over others.

By mandating the Agenda-Setting Theory as the law of the land, we would seek to control the media narrative and shape public opinion in favor of our candidate’s agenda. This theory recognizes that people’s understanding of reality is heavily influenced by the issues presented by the media and the importance attached to them. By strategically directing media attention towards our candidate’s accomplishments and policy priorities, we can enhance their reputation and increase public support.

To justify this choice, I would draw upon the Cultivation Theory, which posits that repeated exposure to media content shapes individuals’ perception of reality (Media-Studies.com, 2023). By consistently highlighting positive aspects of our candidate’s governance, we can cultivate a favorable public perception over time, leading to increased trust and support. This approach would allow us to utilize the power of the media to construct a narrative that aligns with our candidate’s goals and aspirations.

Media Theory and Press Theory: Perspectives of an Informed Citizen

As an informed citizen seeking unbiased and fair information, I would advocate for the application of the Social Responsibility Theory as the press theory that best serves my interests. The Social Responsibility Theory posits that the media should act as a watchdog for the public, holding those in power accountable and providing objective and diverse information.

By embracing the Social Responsibility Theory, the press would prioritize accuracy, fairness, and objectivity in their reporting. This theory recognizes that a healthy democracy relies on an informed citizenry that can make rational decisions based on reliable information. It emphasizes the importance of media outlets serving as independent entities, free from undue influence and bias, and being dedicated to public interest.

To justify this choice, I would highlight the Uses and Gratifications Theory, which suggests that individuals actively seek out media content to fulfill specific needs. By promoting a press theory grounded in social responsibility, media outlets would cater to the needs of citizens who desire accurate information to make informed decisions (Sridharan, 2023). This approach would empower citizens by equipping them with diverse perspectives, enabling critical thinking, and fostering an environment where accountability and transparency are valued.

Conclusion

Media theory and press theories play crucial roles in shaping the dynamics between the media and political power. As a political strategist, the Agenda-Setting Theory provides a tool to influence public opinion and secure political dominance. Conversely, as an informed citizen, the Social Responsibility Theory ensures access to unbiased information and holds those in power accountable. Understanding these theories enables us to critically evaluate the media landscape and its implications for the exercise of political power, ultimately striving for a well-informed citizenry and a thriving democracy.

References

Media-Studies.com. (2023). Cultivation Theory. Media Studies. https://media-studies.com/cultivation-theory/ 

Sridharan, M. (2023). Blumler And Katz Uses And Gratifications Theory. Think Insights. https://thinkinsights.net/strategy/gratifications-theory/ 

Wikipedia contributors. (2023). Agenda-setting theory. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agenda-setting_theory