1. Warm-UP
What should political scientists study the media?

2. Media And Politics

3. I. Functions of the Media

4. A. Setting the political Agenda
Issues will only be addressed by government if they are on the political agenda.
The media plays a large role in deciding which issues make it on the Agenda.
Politicians can also do events or give speeches to get issues on the political agenda(media events).

6. An example of what not to do!
Example of Media Event

7. B. Government Watchdog
1) Expose corruption and make sure government officials do their job.

9. Jon Stewart performing watchdog role.

10. C. Socialization- 1) The media influences citizens views on issues

11. D. The media also frames issue in specific ways and influences how consumers interpret the news.

13. II. Media Bias
A. The Fairness Doctrine - media must air opposing opinions of the same issue. B. FCC later decided it was a violation of the 1st amendment and not necessary with the proliferation of new media sources. C. Equal Time rule still applies.

14. D. Cable news networks and internet sites have began engaging in narrowcasting or targeting media programing at specific populations in society. This has lead to increased polarization among the electorate. E. Many have accused the television networks of replacing hard news with infotainment.

15. Jon Stewart on Crossfire

16. III. Investigative Reporting
Use of investigative techniques to unearth scandals
B: Turning Points:
Vietnam War
Watergate
Clinton Affair

17. IV. Relationship with the Media
Politicians attempt to control the political agenda by leaking stories to reporters and holding press conferences.
Sometimes politicians will use trial balloons to gauge public opinion.

18. V. Media Ownership
A. Individuals or private companies (Not many of these around anymore) B. Chains C. Conglomerates- Individuals or organizations that own media enterprises along with other types of businesses.

19. Costs and Benefits of Corporate Ownership
More Reporters
More Risk, because they have more money
Large corporations can spend more money on talented people
More Homogeneous News
Fresh New talents have fewer opportunities to come to the force
Serious News has been replaced by infotainment

20. VI. How has social media impacted the media
Citizens have more control over the political agenda.
Social media and the internet have caused news organizations to lose profits which has decreased the quality and scope of news we receive.