This paper looks at four systems of the press: Nnewspapers, periodicals, media and tabloids and at their connection to the mergers of the late 90’s.
The paper begins by explaining the workings of the four modes of media in the USA of the 1990’s. It then turns to the media mergers of the late 1990’s, to explore their influence on the press and their impact on the libertarian and social responsibility functions of the American media. The paper concludes with a brief look at the `watchdog theory` the question of the need for checks and balances in American media.
`Newspapers are publications that are usually issued on a daily or weekly basis; the main function of a newspaper is to report news. Some newspapers also provide unique information to readers, such as weather reports, television schedules, and stock prices. Newspapers also provide commentaries on everything from politics to arts and culture. Additionally, most newspapers depend on commercial advertising for their primary source of income. (`Newspaper`, 2002)`