Noam Chomsky’s concept of “manufactured consens” is mostly correct. Media can easily be abused by those in control of the media to shape public opinion or create consensus on certain issues. This manipulation is also possible because of the symbiotic relation between the government, and the press. The media can become too dependent on government information and access and this leads to a lack critical and independent reporting. The media must be willing to scrutinize and challenge the decisions and actions of those in authority in order to serve as an effective check on government power.
This concept implies that the media is often controlled or influenced by powerful individuals and corporations with their own agendas. They present certain narratives and viewpoints to influence public perceptions and reinforce existing power dynamics.
It is common to describe the relationship between government, and press as symbiotic. This means that both parties depend on each other in order to achieve their goals. The media is used by governments to inform the public and influence public opinion. On the other hand, the media relies heavily on government for information and to gain access to decision-making processes and events.
This relationship can be problematic as well, because it can cause the media to become too dependent on the government in terms of information and access. In turn, this can cause the media to become biased or to show excessive deference to the government. The media may not be able to hold the government to account and provide an independent and critical perspective.
It is essential that there be a balance between the two sides in order for the media effectively to serve as a check against government power and to hold elected officials responsible. The media must not over-rely on government information and access and be willing to scrutinize and challenge the decisions and actions of those in authority.
