Social Responsibility Theory

Social Responsibility Theory

This theory keeps certain areas free for the Press but at the same time puts lot of responsibility on
media. As discussed in the beginning that the media is not just seen as an enterprise like others in the
business sector of any society, but due to its unique nature, society expects a particular role which media
must play in getting rid of social evils, educating people, criticizing government policies and exposing other
wrong doings in a society. The sense of responsibility has been emphasized more in this theory as compared
to any other.
• Media has certain obligations to society:
• It must show truth, accuracy, objectivity, and balance
• The media should be free but self-regulated (codes of conduct, and ethics)
• The media is pluralistic: diversity of society, various points of view, forum for ideas
• The media ownership is a public trust. The journalist is accountable to his audience / readers.