Past and Present of Siebert & Colleagues' Four Theories of the Press: Sequential Modifications of Press Theories Associated with the Media's Social Obligations within the Framework of the Social Environment of the Day

Abstract

This paper is an introductory-level discussion of theorization of the dynamic relationship between press, culture, and society. The introduction summarizes two epochal interpretations of this dynamic as advanced by Nerone and Barnhurst’s analysis of the history of newspaper forms and its relation to civic society, as well as Curran’s historical content and processes interpretations of media and society. The bulk of the first part discusses Siebert and colleague’s four theories of the press and some of the modifications made to these theories and the ideas that led to changes in the conceptualization of the press. The main thesis of the paper the idea of sequential modifications of existing press theories that focus on the press’ social responsibilities within the framework of the social environment. Subsequently, the second section discusses recent trends in conceptualization of media systems.