Why is media freedom necessary in a democracy?
I can explain what free press is and the role it plays in democracy.
Why is media freedom necessary in a democracy?
I can explain what free press is and the role it plays in democracy.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The media plays a key role in any democracy.
- The media can be controlled to protect others, allow integrity and fairness.
- The media can be controlled through censorship, regulation and laws.
- Media freedom allows scrutiny of government and holds them to account.
Keywords
Democracy - a system of government in which citizens vote in regular, fair elections for representatives who then make laws and decisions on their behalf
Press freedom - the ability of the press to give information and express opinions
Censorship - the control of information or ideas within a society
Common misconception
The media should always be neutral.
Media freedom does not require journalists to be entirely neutral. It allows for a range of perspectives, such as investigative journalism and opinion pieces, as long as they are reported accurately.
Equipment
Licence
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Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
the specific geographical area that is represented by each MP
when the citizens of a country vote to elect a new government
the voting process to select a person for a public position