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  • Essay / Influence of the media on politics - 1801

    Influence; it is an essential force inherent in all decisions, mentalities and values. Sometimes influence, whether intentional or not, is easy to discover, but other times it goes unnoticed despite the huge impact it can have. Influence can take many forms and be interpreted in many ways; All of this contributes to the idea that the roots of influence are not always necessarily clear. This is increasingly the case with the effects of Canadian media on politics, as more people continue to consume more media on additional platforms, at greater convenience. Essentially, it's easier than ever to consume media. Overall, Canadian media is able to impact a wider audience while inducing additional influence on Canadian elections through a lean regulatory body, resulting in media companies holding too much influence in Canadian elections. There is no dispute that the overall use of new media technologies is increasing. It is widely recognized that the use of traditional and new media in Canada is extremely widespread. 95% of Canadians watch television, 86% listen to the radio, 78% read newspapers and 94% use the Internet in some way. However, the direct impact of Canadian media on politics in Canada is contested, given the platforms they currently hold; It’s a chicken or the egg scenario. Some analysts argue that increased contact with political material is likely to lead to an increased level of political engagement, but others argue that those who are already politically engaged will seek additional political material. It is also debatable whether or not the Canadian media has a direct impact on Canada...... middle of paper ......that the media has on Canadian elections. This is far from the ideal scenario and contrary to the measures proposed by the CRTC, but until there is a change in media regulation, the news networks will continue to maintain the power of the favorites pre -electoral. Although ultimately the pre-election favorite will not always win, if they continue to receive additional stimulus from the Canadian media, it will eventually render the period of political heaviness leading up to the election unnecessary. By realizing this, the Canadian media is essentially restricting the entire democratic process. Whether they know it or not or seek to acknowledge it, the Canadian media has far too much influence on the Canadian electoral system as it exists today. Without a change in the status quo, who can say exactly how the media will disrupt the democratic process in the near future ?.