Normative Theories The classical theories of Mass Communication

Purpose of these theories Each country’s mass media system is determined by its political philosophy. These controlling philosophies have even started since then without people noticing or knowing it. From the earliest civilizations up to now, various controlling philosophies are playing a great role in a certain nation’s political and even mass media system.

Purpose of these theories Explains the norms of the media Gives and overview of the various kinds of media systems Gives a better understanding of how the media works Helps us understand the various flaws in a certain system by looking at its norms

Authoritarian theory

It was presented by Siebert Peterson and Schuman 1956 under being normative theories of mass communication and stems from the authoritarian philosophy of Plato ( B.C), who thought that the State was safe only in the hands of a few wise men.

Background overview Under an Authoritarian approach in Western Europe, freedom of thought was jealously guarded by a few people (ruling classes), who were concerned with the emergence of a new middle class and were worried about the effects of printed matter on their thought process. Steps were taken to control the freedom of expression. The result was advocacy of complete dictatorship. The theory promoted zealous obedience to a hierarchical superior and reliance on threat and punishment to those who did not follow the censorship rules or did not respect authority.

Authoritarian theory Press is made or placed under the control of government ruler in this system. to prevent the pres form interference the ruler has five the directions to the press for not challenging or criticizing on the government. press works as an instrument to strength the power of the ruler. Media should do nothing that could harm the establishment of the government. media should not project based moral an political values. journalists or other media professionals have no right to stand against the government.

Authoritarian theory Current examples

Libertarianism or Free Press Theory

Libertarianism Theory A philosophy that advocates free will, individual rights, and voluntary cooperation. This theory is based on the right of an individual, and advocates absence of restraint. Advocates of this theory were Lao Tzu, an early 16th century philosopher, John Locke of Great Britain in the17th century, John Milton, the epic poet ("Aeropagitica") and John Stuart Mill, an essayist ("On Liberty").

Background The basis of this theory dates back to 17th century England when the printing press made it possible to print several copies of a book or pamphlet at cheap rates. The State was thought of as a major source of interference on the rights of an individual and his property. Libertarians regarded taxation as institutional theft. Popular will (vox populi) was granted precedence over the power of State.

Libertarianism Theory Libertarianism grants a totally free press upholding that people are inherently rational truth-seekers the privileged communication and fair comment on matters of public interest Libertarians argued that the press should be seen as the Fourth Estate reflecting public opinion Libertarians regarded taxation as institutional theft.