Linkage Institutions and Media

These flashcards encompass key concepts regarding the relationship between media and government, the evolution of media, and implications of media practices.

What are linkage institutions?

Organizations or systems that connect citizens to government, including the media and interest groups.

What roles do the media play in relation to government?

They act as a gatekeeper, scorekeeper, and watchdog.

Define 'gatekeeper' in the context of media roles.

The media decides which topics become national issues.

What is the 'scorekeeper' role of the media?

To monitor and report on which political figures and parties are winning or losing.

Explain the 'watchdog' function of the media.

The media investigates and examines government actions and policies on behalf of the public.

How does the media facilitate communication between government and the public?

Media serves as the medium through which information is sent from the government to the public.

What was the relationship between media and government in the early days?

Media was highly partisan, often operated by political parties.

What is yellow journalism?

A sensationalist form of journalism that emphasizes exaggerated news stories.

What was the significance of the Fireside Chats?

They were radio broadcasts by FDR that helped connect the president directly with the public.

What happened to the Fairness Doctrine?

It was abolished by the FCC in 1987, which required balanced coverage of political candidates.

What is 'narrowcasting'?

Targeting specific audiences rather than broadcasting to the general public, often increasing polarization.

What is the impact of infotainment in media?

Misinformation can spread as opinion pieces look like news.

Describe the current trend in media consumption.

People are turning to social media and other non-traditional sources for news.

What is the significance of the term '4th branch' applied to the media?

The media acts as an independent entity that influences government and public opinion.

What role does the President play in media relations?

They utilize press releases, briefings, and conferences to communicate with the media.

How does Congress interact with the media?

Congress employs leadership to focus and guide media narratives and public discuss.

What are journalistic standards?

Ethical guidelines that govern how journalists report news, including on-the-record and off-the-record conditions.

What does 'on background' mean in journalism?

The reporter can quote the source but cannot attribute the statement directly to the source's name.

What is fake news?

News that presents opinion as fact, misleading the audience.

How has deregulation affected the media landscape?

It has led to the emergence of new media formats and increased competition.

What is the 'Trump Effect' in media?

An increase in media scrutiny and criticism towards politicians that emerged during Trump’s presidency.

How does media bias affect public confidence?

People have grown distrustful and critical of media sources, particularly during politically contentious times.

What does H.L. Mencken mean by 'the press should comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable'?

Media has a responsibility to support the disadvantaged while holding powerful figures accountable.

What technological developments have influenced media in the past decade?

The rise of the internet, social media, and globalization, creating a 'new era' for media.

Why is regulating media challenging?

Due to the protections of the First Amendment, media enjoys considerable freedom.

How can the Fairness Doctrine be reintroduced?

Through either new Commission policy or congressional legislation.

Evaluate the impact of media on public policy.

The media sets the agenda, influences public perception, and can sway political decisions.

What does consolidation refer to in media?

The merging of media companies which can limit diversity of viewpoints in news coverage.

What are some modern examples of media's role in politics?

Press conferences, political debates, and coverage of major national events.