The main functions of a journalist Mrs. Thompson Journalism
Political Provide audience with information with which to base political decisions Press is considered the “watchdog” of government Cover in detail government activities Budgets Scandal Wrongdoing Meetings Elections
Economic Provides information about products, goods, and services Creates advertising
Sentry Reports on what is likely to happen in the future Writes about social and political difficulties and their possible outcomes Draws audience attention to issues they might not otherwise see Poverty Brutality World issues
Record-Keeping Creates an accurate record of local, national, and world news
Entertainment Entertains/amuses the audience Comics Crosswords Celebrity news Feature photos Food/living sections
Social a way to pass on information Creates a social situation where people discuss what is in the news
“Marketplace” Marketplace of ideas Provides the forum for many types of ideas If the public is concerned about something, it is up to the press to report on it This can change city/state policies
Agenda-Setting Pushes ideas for audience to think about Media has the power to determine what people talk about and address as a nation