“Evaluate the view that the media brings more advantages than disadvantages to UK General Elections and Referendums”

(1) Point against my view

• The media provides crucial information about candidates, parties, and their policies. This enables voters to make informed decisions based on comprehensive coverage and analysis.

• During referendums, the media offers insights into the implications of different outcomes, helping voters understand complex issues.

(1) Example for point against my view

• In 2019 GE, BBC's breakdown of Labour's proposal to nationalise rail, mail, & water services provided voters with a clear understanding of economic implications and logistical details of these policies.

• Additionally, they offered fact-checking services that scrutinised claims made by all parties, helping to combat misinfo. and provide clarity.

(1) Point for my view

• The spread of misinfo. and fake news, particularly on social media, can mislead voters and distort the democratic process. This is exacerbated by the echo chamber effect, where individuals are exposed primarily to information that reinforces their existing beliefs.

• In referendums, misinfo. can have particularly damaging effects, as voters might base their decisions on false or misleading claims.

(1) Example for point for my view

• During 2016 EU Ref, false claims such as infamous £350 million per week for the NHS by the Vote Leave campaign were widely disseminated and criticized for misleading the public.

• This misinfo. arguably influenced the referendum result.

(2) Point against my view

• Media platforms, especially social media, enhance political engagement by encouraging discussions and debates among citizens. This can lead to a more informed and participatory electorate.

• Election coverage, including debates and interviews, helps to spark interest in politics, particularly among younger demographics.

(2) Example for point against my view

• 2016 EU Ref saw extensive use of social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, which facilitated widespread public engagement & debate.

• Campaigns like "Vote Leave" and "Stronger In" used social media to reach millions of voters, encouraging discussions and mobilizing support.

(2) Point for my view

• Media bias, where outlets favour certain parties or candidates, can skew public perception and undermine the fairness of elections. This partisanship can lead to polarised electorates and diminish trust in the media.

• Sensationalism and the pursuit of ratings can overshadow substantive policy discussions, reducing the quality of public discourse.

(2) Example for point for my view

• Sun's headlines frequently labeled Corbyn as a threat to national security, while portraying Boris Johnson in a much more favorable light. Sun's front page claimed JC was "Britain’s most dangerous man," associating him with radical groups and casting doubts on his suitability for the role of PM. Also ran the headline: “"Don’t chuck Britain in the Cor-bin"

• This biased coverage potentially swayed public opinion and voter behavior.

(3) Point against my view

• Investigative journalism holds politicians and parties accountable by exposing corruption, inconsistencies, and policy failures.

• Media scrutiny ensures that candidates’ claims and promises are examined critically, promoting transparency in the electoral process.

(3) Example for point against my view

• In 2017 G.E, the media played a critical role in scrutinising the Conservative Party's "Dementia Tax" policy.

• Intense media coverage & critical analysis forced party to clarify and amend its policy stance, demonstrating media's role in holding politicians accountable

(3) Point for my view

• Media ownership concentration in the hands of a few can lead to a disproportionate influence of wealthy individuals or corporations on public opinion and electoral outcomes.

• Advertising & campaign finance issues can lead to uneven playing field, where well-funded candidates or parties have significant advantage in reaching voters.

(3) Evidence for point for my view

• According to Electoral Commission, the Conservatives spent £16 mill. on their campaign, with much of this funding coming from wealthy individuals and businesses.

• This financial advantage enabled extensive media advertising and a stronger online presence, contributing to their electoral success.