Liberal theory of the press

This theory basically states that the press should have a freedom of speech and be able to scrutinize the government.

This is because they would not be funded by the government or any other large industries, allowing them not to be held by bias opinions.

This type of press is regulated on a consumer basis, meaning they will take in opinions from the public, and change accordingly. They also act as a mouthpiece for the public too, with the public tribune, taking in public opinions about people in power, and stating those in their newspapers. This also means they’re not regulated by the government and have more freedom to speak about them.

Watchdogs

Watchdogs are a function within the media that protect the public from power. This is done by journalists who speak up about wrongdoings done by the government and other power figures without being restricted on what they’re allowed to say.

examples:

Consumer based approach:

• diversifies the media to a wide range of consumers.
• audience have to trust their own judgment more.
• content is made for specific benefits of the consumer, e.g. news and education.

Citizen based approach:

• consistent standards must be met, and issues are dealt with fairly and objectively.
• critical and accusational of government actions