Historically the role of the mass media was to be a watchdog over the government. The founding fathers believed that the media should be able to dig up facts and warn the public of any wrong doing by any public official. Furthermore, if the media believed that the politician was engaged in any kind of unscrupulous activities the public should be aware of that. Also, the founding fathers believed that the role of media is serve in helping the public to make a clear and logical choice in whom to vote for. The public should be aware of the personnel character, knowledge, experience, and position on the issues of there choices for office. Without this information citizens wouldn't be able to properly choose who they would like to have in office. Also, the founding fathers believed that the role of the mass media should bring forth the truth on how policies are working and if they will continue to work. The public should be well informed on the day-to-day events in government. The founding fathers believed so strongly in keeping the general public informed they instituted into the constitution. The First Amendment of the constitution helps ensure that the media will be able to expose officials misbehavior with out fear of prosecution and keep the public aware at all times.
             Today, the role of the mass media has changed dramatically. First, nearly all ways of presenting information to the public is owned now by big multi-million dollars corporations. They control what is broadcast and what is not. Second, radio has changed the role of media. Radio today provides a forum for the general public to voice their opinion on statues, policy's, and elected officials and on how society is affecting them in general. Historically, radio wasn't of great importance to the general public, however; during the Great Depression of the 1930's millions of people could hear the reassuring voice of President Franklin ...