Los Medios de Comunicación-"En el Medio"- video 1/3 (canal Encuentro)

Key Concepts

• Social construction of reality by the media
• Media as the "fourth power"
• Objectivity vs. political propaganda in media
• Evolution of media ownership and business models
• Historical development of media regulation in Argentina and the US
• Influence of political and economic contexts on media

The Role of Media in Society

The media plays a crucial role in the social construction of reality. Citizens have limited direct contact with the world, and their understanding of it is largely shaped by the information they receive through various media outlets. Without communication, our knowledge of the world is severely limited.

The media is often referred to as the "fourth power" due to its influence in controlling, overseeing, and criticizing the traditional three powers (executive, legislative, and judicial). It also plays a role in discussing and deepening ideas about political reality.

The function of the media is to entertain, inform, and provide people with elements to think critically. However, problems arise when the media attempts to replace fundamental institutions of society.

Objectivity vs. Political Propaganda

Historically, newspapers originated as tools for political propaganda. La Gaceta in Argentina is cited as an example of a newspaper that was explicitly non-objective and served as a vehicle for political messaging.

The concept of objectivity and neutrality in media is often presented as an unquestionable definition, obscuring the initial role of media in propagating political ideas. Suggesting that the media is involved in politics is often seen as disrespectful.

Evolution of Media Ownership and Business Models

The press plays a complex cultural role in recognizing consensus and creating a common sense. Journalistic companies have evolved into multimedia conglomerates, impacting their role and priorities.

Over the past 15-20 years, media companies have expanded into various businesses, including communication, editorials, and telephone companies. This shift has altered the media landscape, moving away from the idea of media outlets solely focused on promoting specific political ideas.

Historical Development of Media Regulation

19th Century

• Electric Telegraph: In the 19th century, some countries delegated investment in the electric telegraph to large companies, while others favored state participation.
• Argentina (1875): Law 750 required authorization from the executive branch or Congress for establishing national telegraphs.
• United States (1883): Joseph Pulitzer acquired The World newspaper, adding to his existing St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
• United States (1895): William Randolph Hearst purchased the New York Morning Journal, leading to the creation of a media conglomerate comprising 28 newspapers, 18 magazines, news agencies, radio networks, and film producers.

20th Century

• Argentina (1913): Law 9127 established a state monopoly on media, including telegraphic, telephone, and radio communications, to protect state security. Legislation on radio-electric transmission was also passed, with authorizations granted by the Ministry of the Navy.
• United States (1927): The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was created to regulate the media.
• Argentina (1932): Crítica launched a cinematographic newsreel, becoming the first multimedia group in the country.
• Argentina (1953): The first Broadcasting Law was enacted during Juan Domingo Perón's second presidency.
• Argentina (1957): The de facto government of General Pedro Eugenio Aramburu signed Decree Law 15460/5, enabling the state and individuals to provide communication services through public tender, favoring commercial media.
• Argentina (1972): Decree Law 19798 established the national executive power's competence in telecommunications activities and frequency band administration. The Federal Broadcasting Committee (COMFER) was created.
• Argentina (1980): Broadcasting Decree Law 22285, signed by Jorge Rafael Videla and José Alfredo Martínez de Hoz, prioritized national security and adherence to the dictatorship's ideology, censoring freedom of expression and favoring a commercial media system.

Conclusion

The media's role in shaping our understanding of reality is undeniable. Its evolution from political propaganda to complex multimedia conglomerates has significantly impacted its function and influence. The historical development of media regulation reflects the ongoing tension between state control, commercial interests, and freedom of expression. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for navigating the media landscape and critically evaluating the information we consume.