1. What role does the media play in American government?

2. 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

3. 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

4. What role does the media play in American government?

5. 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