Onwumah, Tony (2013) The Mass Media, and The Reinvention of Democratic Culture for Credible Political Leadership. South South Journal of Culture and Development, 15 (2). pp. 130-151.
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Abstract
Universally, and through the ages man had always expressed a desire to be a part of how he is governed. This is the urge for democracy and good governance. While the mass media could be used to motivate and mobilize the people towards the tainment of democratic Ideals it could also be used otherwise. Thus, it has both prospects and limitations. It can reach the masses wr o ue spread across long distances instantly. with efftciency and effectiveness. Its lir1itations include, tnterference of media owners in :he duties of media practitioners, ill iteracy, poverty and 1ack of professionalism. Democratic culture is said to exist in a society where the basic tenets and ideals of democracy have been practiced and entrenched over a relatively long time. This paper argues that the mass media have important roles to play in the reinvention of democratic culture and have a more important role in the evolution of credible political leadership which is arguably lacking in ·Nigeria. The paper recommends that journalists in Nigeria, apart from basic education also require professional training. Furthermore, media ownership should not interfere with media practice which should be seen as public trust. Journalists in both print and electronic media should demonstrate more objectivity in news reporting. It is equally important to license journalists as it obtains in other professions. Finally, the paper opines that erring journalists should be sanctioned while those who excel in the performance of their duties should be rewarded.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | H Social Sciences > HM Sociology |
| Divisions: | Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Social Sciences |
| Depositing User: | Mrs Patricia Nwokealisi |
| Date Deposited: | 04 Dec 2015 13:06 |
| Last Modified: | 04 Dec 2015 13:06 |
| URI: | http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/5699 |
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