What role does the media play in American government?

Theory of a Fourth Branch In political science, some theorists speculate there is a fourth branch in American government The “Fourth Branch” theory argues that forces OUTSIDE the government place checks and balances on the government Forces include: Interest groups Government bureaucracy United Nations Mass Media

Media as the Fourth Branch? Freedom of the press is guaranteed by the 1st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution Founders viewed the freedom of press as a safeguard against government oppression Many founders even believed the freedom of the press to be the Constitution’s most important amendment Today, many political theorists argue it is the true fourth estate, or fourth branch of government

What role does the media play in American government?

The Fourth Estate Debrief Media does serve a watchdog role Inform public of policies that office holders are creating Encourage public to partake in government Provide multiple viewpoints regarding polices Inform public of corruption Are independent of government Media has become increasingly unpopular in eyes of Americans: Are partisan and only favor specific policy agendas and candidates Are focused on sensationalism and sound bites Convey complex issues in black and white terms Might be dividing Americans more than informing them