ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the role of the press in a democratic society. A free press promotes the core democratic value of political freedom. The media support political freedom by helping to create what Jurgen Habermas a public sphere, a forum where information on matters important to civic life can be freely accessed and exchanged. The news media’s role in providing information and education is much more complex than simply providing the raw materials for neutral observers to make up their minds on whether they support a particular candidate or oppose a particular policy. Researchers studying news information consumption patterns on social media have found that a big influence on those choices are personal recommendations. The mass media have also taken over some of the traditional party roles for candidates. There is also a concern about information quality that accompanies the rise of mass media.
