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Outline and explain two ways in which the ownership of the media can affect the content of the news - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 19 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 19
Outline and explain two ways in which the ownership of the media can affect the content of the news. [10 marks]
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline and explain two ways in which the ownership of the media can affect the content of the news - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 19 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Use of media for propaganda and to influence opinion
Answer
One significant way ownership of media affects news content is by utilizing media as a tool for propaganda. Owners may have specific political affiliations or interests that skew how news is reported. For instance, a media outlet owned by individuals with clear political biases may prioritize certain stories while neglecting others, thereby shaping public opinion in a specific direction. This manipulation of information allows for the control of narratives, affecting the overall representation of events and issues.
Step 2
Concentration of ownership and its effect on diversity
Answer
Another way ownership impacts media content is through the concentration of ownership that narrows the range of sources available to the public. When a few corporations control large portions of the media landscape, it limits the diversity of perspectives presented. This consolidation often leads to homogenized content, where different outlets offer similar viewpoints and lack critical analysis of issues. For example, in countries with state-controlled media, the government often restricts dissenting views, impacting the public's access to a well-rounded understanding of events.