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Outline and explain two ways in which new media may have affected the selection and presentation of news. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 19 - 2020 - Paper 2
Question 19
Outline and explain two ways in which new media may have affected the selection and presentation of news.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline and explain two ways in which new media may have affected the selection and presentation of news. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 19 - 2020 - Paper 2
Step 1
First Way: Citizen Journalism
Answer
New media has empowered ordinary individuals to become citizen journalists, allowing them to report on news stories as they unfold. This shift means that anyone with access to social media platforms can publish information quickly, which has led to a broader range of voices in the news landscape. For example, during significant events like protests or natural disasters, eyewitnesses can share real-time updates, photos, and videos. This has changed the way news is presented, as it can be more immediate and raw, sometimes bypassing traditional news outlets altogether.
Step 2
Second Way: Proliferation of Fake News
Answer
The rise of new media has also contributed to the proliferation of fake news. With fewer regulations compared to traditional media, misinformation can spread rapidly across platforms like Facebook and Twitter. This impacts news selection as sensational or misleading headlines tend to capture audience attention, potentially overshadowing more reliable news coverage. Consequently, news organizations feel pressured to compete for clicks and views, often prioritizing sensationalism over factual reporting. This change has serious implications for public trust in media and the overall quality of news presented.