JOURNALISM AND SOCIETY

KEY TOPICS ◾ Evolution of the concept and practice of ‘free speech’ and ‘free press’ ◾ Purpose of journalism in society and its role in the architecture of democracy (e.g. freedom, civic responsibility, transparency and accountability) ◾ Role and responsibilities of journalists in the 21st century in the national and global arena (e.g. mirror, gatekeeper, watchdog, enabler, facilitator) ◾ Public-interest journalism, editorial independence vis à vis ownership influence ◾ Role of information ethics LEARNING OBJECTIVES After completing this unit, teachers will be able to: ◾ trace the evolution of the concept and practice of ‘free speech’ and ‘free press’ ◾ delineate the purpose of journalism and its role in strengthening or pursuing democracy and good governance, and ◾ evaluate the evolving role and responsibilities of journalists and information professionals, both in the national and global arena, and in the context of public interest