Originally Posted by sadafnoorelahi

q.8 Press freedom and responsibility go hand in hand in a democratic society. Comment
“liberty means responsibility. that is why most men dread it “George Bernard shaw
press freedom : liberty to think and express oneself i.e speech, writing and thinking .it also ensures the liberty to think and act without any restriction or control from outside along with the freedom of use of required devices and free press means.
Press responsibility: press has certain rules of ethics and do’s and don’ts to follow. these are also called as canons of journalism.
Interrelationship of democracy and press
Press and democracy are intertwined. while press is the voice of people, democracy is the government of people. Perling one will automatically endanger the other instituition. history corroborates the fact that the press of a time reflects the political structure of the country. it is believed that as in Pakistan, democracy has failed to flourish in the true sense of word, therefore the press too has suffered numerously.
Dependence of democracy on press
Democracy is made possible by the flow of information. if the media is restricted, censored or hindered in any way then the populace would remain ignorant: of their rights and duties. this also reduces their ability to play a conducive role in the betterment of the society.
Free press-ingredient of democracy:
Free press and electronic media is an essential ingredient of democratic polity because only the source of information can keep not only the information flowing but also ensure constant dialogue between electors and elected. An analysis of the state of press freedom in historical perspective of the country reveals that one of the factors responsible for semi independent state of press is failure of democracy.
Responsible media-an essential of democracy
Just as every coin has two sides, similarly press too has two facets, freedom and responsibility. media being the fourth pillar of state also has a heavy responsibility. there are certain ethics of media channels and press to shape the discipline of journalism so that they seek the truth and convey information ,ideas and opinions.
The experience of the last decade in Central Europe, for example, shows that mass media served decisively in the construction of the civil society and in censuring the authoritarian trends of some politicians or parties. Also, it corrected and continues to correct, the excesses, negligences and management errors in the countries with a consolidated democracy.
Similarly, in the recent elections of May 11, media has played a responsible role in the establishment of a democratic government by highlighting the demands of the general public and advocating the agenda of the political parties.
conclusion
free and responsible media is necessary for the promotion of democracy.