Functions of the Traditional Press in a Democracy

In her article "Democracy Defended..." Erica Johnson states that there are certain roles that traditional press has played in a democracy.

There are two specific functions of traditional press in a democracy, that of gatekeeper and government watchdog.

Gatekeeper - There is so much information out there that could be reported on, it is impossible to report on every single bit of information so a main function of the press is as "gatekeeper;" where they get to decide what gets reported on and what doesn't. With this power, they get to decide what is important and they prevent the public from being overwhelmed with the incredible amount of information that is out there. The press must be independent of any government interference in order for them to properly carry out their gatekeeping duties.

Government Watchdog-Is exactly what is sounds like: a check on our government. The press as government watchdog goes through all the information that is placed into the public sphere. They broadcast information that reflects both positively and negatively about the government and its actions, and uncover scandals and problems that would ordinarily be covered up by the government. This is often called the "fourth estate." It is called the "forth estate" because it serves as another level of checks and balances to the already established three branches of government. It's call the "forth estate" because of it's watchdog abilities on the first three.

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