The Media and Democracy: Beyond Myths and Stereotypes

In: Annual review of political science, Volume 6, p. 139-160

Abstract

This essay's point of departure is the hallowed belief that democracy requires active citizens & news media that supply them with information they need to participate effectively in politics. The main features of this model of a functioning democracy, including the underlying assumptions, are tested & found wanting. Neither citizens nor media are capable of performing the roles expected of them. The appropriateness of these roles for life in modern societies is also open to question, as are the many myths & stereotypes that obscure the interface between media & democracy. The fact that democracy can persist despite citizens & media that fall short of the expected performance suggests that political culture may be more important than citizen wisdom & media excellence. Rallies in civic activism during crises may also be a major factor in the durability of democratic governance in the US. 90 References. Adapted from the source document.