Question

Discuss the media's roles and responsibilities towards all citizens in a democratic society for 10 marks

Answer 1

Ideally, the media serve several essential roles in a democratic society. Their primary purpose is to inform the public, providing citizens with the information needed to make thoughtful decisions about leadership and policy. The media act as watchdogs checking government actions.

Answer 2

Explanation:

• Media's roles and responsibilities towards all citizens in a democratic society lie in safeguarding democratic system. Media is called the “Fourth Pillar of Democracy” or the Fourth Estate because of “the power the Media has”.
• Media should empower the citizens by spreading the right information. Citizens should be allowed to participate freely in the Media and proper relationship should be maintained between the citizens and the Media.
• Media should act as a gatekeeper and watchdog and the content that is aired or published should be monitored appropriately. Media should act as a protector and provide valid information during emergency situations.
• It should tune on the role of a watchdog or investigator to investigate corruption, illegal activities and other social evils taking place against the citizens. Media independency should be empowered with autonomy to provide fair and valid content to the viewers.