Media Regulation

Who regulates the media?

The print media in the UK is self-regulated; it operates free from any specific statutory rules. The profession has established the Press Complaints Commission (PCC) on it’s own initiative. There are different bodies that focus on precise areas. Media content regulation revolves around other codes of practice, some bodies drawn are up are either largely or entirely independent. In some cases bodies have developed media themselves has established the codes of practice with statutory powers over the media while in others the responsible bodies.

Why does the media need regulating?

The media needs regulating because; it makes sure that the public is protected from biased tabloids and campaigns. Also all media institutions have limits and rules that they have to follow.

Should media texts be subject to censorship?

It is often unjustifiable and is used simply to stop truths or ideas emerge which could possibly draw attention to governments or other powerful people. Prior censorship poses special dangers to freedom of expression.

What are the key issues relating to media influence (Uses and Gratification Theory, Desensitisation, Cultural Regulation), and how might they have affected you?

Cultural Regulation is a key issues regulating to media influence, cultural regulation include issues such as minority groups of various kinds may seek to change the ways in which they are represented in the mass media.

Is the public protected or hindered by media regulation?

Protecting the public from media regulation has been a big issue, tackling title misuse is an important part of this work. Also protecting professional titles ensures that the public would not be influenced. On the other hand the public can also be hindered by media regulation due to negative messages being displayed in the mass media, which may cause influences on others, and their attitudes. 

What is the moral responsibility of a media institution?

This is for a media institution to show their product in a positive way; because media is a demanding industry they have to continue to satisfy the needs of their consumers. I think that the media should morally stand for portraying positive images/messages to the public.