The Power of Media & Information and Freedom of Expression

It hasn't been quite a long time since the digital era began. This is where humanity, technology, media and information collided, and has caused massive changes when it comes to the economy, politics, environment and most importantly, the communication in and out of the society. As the ages of media and information kept on evolving before, our rights to express our opinions were present since then. Moreover, as we continue to ponder, what power media and information has to this particular right, and what specific change has it brought?

Firstly, the right to communicate someone's opinions and ideas and share information in whatever form is called 'freedom of expression'. It prohibits the state and other people in society from censorship and it can be restricted for only very serious reasons.It also enables the free exchange of ideas, opinions and information and thus allows members of society to form their own opinions on issues of public importance. In addition, it serves public debate and supports a free and independent press, informed citizenship and the transparent functioning of the state. On the other hand, the media inform society on matters of public interest and create an important platform for public debate, scrutiny and reflection.

Secondly, media has a power to give information and provide an easy means of communication especially in long distance were people will able to contact quickly to each other. The influence of media has become so powerful today because it can easily influence people positively and or negatively. Media and information functions to strengthen and enrich the connection of people, the social environment, and the ecnomy. It opens different opportunities to us. It can motivate, inspire, inform, express ideas and feelings freely, and empower citizen. Furthermore, Media and Information Literacy (MIL), defined as the ability to access, analyze, and create media, is a prerequisite for citizens to realize their rights to freedom of information and expression.

Thirdly, the newspaper, magazine, radio, television and internet, being the different types of media, are used as means to value freedom of expression. The traditional media (newspaper, magazine, radio and television) and new media (Internet) are the changes that media and information have offered. Feedom of expression extends the traditional idea of the freedom of the press to electronic media, such as radio, television, and the Internet.Individuals generally cannot get sufficient information on their own to make informed decisions on public matters, so they rely on media to provide information. In addition, the media are an outlet for public discussion and opinion and generally fulfill the functions of seeking truth, educating the public, and serving as a watchdog over government.

Finally, it's my contention that media information has so much power to offer, especially in the freedom of expression. It has also caused change, that made freedom of expression easier. Through it, this right will not be buried, and will be given an utmost importance till the next and coming more generation. Thus, media and information is indeed a powerful tool towards freedom of expression.