Should the Media Be Subject to Censorship and Regulation

1073 Words5 Pages
Should the media be subject to censorship and regulation? explanation of what censorship and regulation is different types of censorship/regulation with examples to support sociological perspectives arguments for and against censorship in a democracy own opinion with justification Censorship of the media refers to ways of regulation and controlling the media that involve preventing or removing material from reaching its audience or restricting the audience being reached. The process takes a number of forms and is applies in a variety of situations. Censorship can be used by the government and regulatory bodies and can be brought about by the decisions and judgement of media professionals, known as self-censorship. Media owners might also be seen as exercising censorship when they seek to control content. Governmental censorship includes use of the Official Secrets Act and DA Notices to prevent the reporting of certain events on the grounds it could damage national security. Regulatory bodies, known as ‘watchdog’, like the Press Complaints Commission and the British Board of Film Classification, aim to keep a check on media content. Other forms of censorship include the use of a watershed to restrict content broadcast before a specific time. Censorship can be seen as formal and informal. Formal censorship includes regulation by official bodies such as the government. Informal censorship is exercised by media professionals based on mutual agreements and informal discussion. The effectiveness or desirability of censorship is the subject of great debate, with some theorists contending that censorship is unnecessary as the media’s effect on their audience remains unproven. Others argue that free choice should be protected unless harm can be proven. Those supportive of censorship claim that it is an important means of protecting vulnerable members of society

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