Traditional & New Media, Freedom of Expression

Traditional Media

  • Long-established channels: radio, broadcast TV, cable, satellite, print, billboards
  • Remain relevant; audience time still devoted despite rise of online sources
  • Question posed: consequences if traditional media disappear

New Media

  • Computational, computer-dependent platforms for creation & redistribution
  • Examples: internet, social networks, streaming, mobile apps

Media Consumption Today

  • Consumers juggle quick online searches with traditional outlets
  • Titanic thought experiment: in 1912 news moved via telegraph & newspapers; today it would reach the world instantly through social media, live video, push alerts

Mainstream Media & Monitoring

  • Certain media monitored to curb misinformation, protect security, uphold cultural or political standards

Freedom of Expression

  • Right to convey ideas/opinions through speech, writing, or other media without harming others’ reputation
  • Includes freedom of the press
  • Philippine Constitution 1987, Art III Sec 4: no law shall abridge speech, expression, press, peaceful assembly, petition
  • Some states impose limits to prevent abuse while preserving public order

Media Censorship & Self-Censorship

  • External: government or regulators restrict content
  • Internal: media organizations moderate their own output to avoid penalties or protect staff

Roles & Functions of Media in a Democratic Society

  • Channel – facilitates public communication & idea exchange
  • Watchdog – reveals corruption, supports free & fair elections
  • Resource Center – stores & supplies information, preserves heritage, aids scholarship
  • Advocate – narrows digital divide by offering diverse formats and access points

Classroom Tasks

  • Group skit: 3!{-}!5-minute scene showing scenario, at least two media types, clear message on media role/freedom/censorship
  • Assignment: create Poster/Video/Essay on “Freedom of Expression,” post online with #FreedomOfExpressionMIL and tag instructor