The influence of the media
Description
Most people get their information on political issues from the media. Often this can influence people鈥檚 opinions. Sir David Steel discusses the negative criticism over the cost of the Scottish Parliament building. A journalist discusses the role the media plays in holding politicians to account. The media can also exert political influence through campaigns, such as the one carried out by the Daily Record newspaper to keep Peterhead prison open.
Classroom Ideas
This clip could be used to illustrate the role of media in society and the impact of newspapers on decision making. Following the clip, students could use newspapers from recent elections to consider the political slant of different newspapers. Other media campaigns on particular issues could also be examined to detect bias and exaggeration.
