Everyone from politicians to academics now agrees that public communications systems play a vital role in society. It is through the news media in particular that citizens are able to stay informed and play an active role in the construction of their democratic world. It is argued, however that the media is too influential on public opinion; and it is the proprietors of the industry making all of the decisions. It is in relation to this debate that it becomes crucial to analyse the critical political economy of the news media. The critical political economy being the power and influence exerted by media owners, government and culture.
News is the reportings of recent facts, or news otherwise not known. (Oxford Dictionary,1992:74) Originally, news was broadcasted on radio, always with one white, male presenter reading the entire bulletin. …
