What is the role of mass media in the promotion of nationalism and patriotism: an assessment?
Ok… first things first: You don’t have a thesis statement there. That’s a question. A thesis is a stated position. Here, you have no position yet, you are simply asking about the role of the media. Perhaps a better thesis statement would be: ‘An assesment of the role mass media plays in the promotion of nationalism and patriotism.’ Or: ‘The role of mass media in the perpetuation of patriotism and nationalism’ In any case, you need to have a stance before you start, and your thesis needs to include facts, quotes and statistics to back up your assertion that a) the media promotes nationalism and patriotism; or that b) there is no evidence that the media does this. Hope this helps! Now go and watch hours of Fox news.
In an ideal world, I would say the mass media role should be passive and professional. The news media is now international and no longer tied to just one nation. The news media should always report the truth and give an honest assessment of the day’s events. And these reports should not shift just to please a government. There are many other institutions poised and ready to promote nationalism and patriotism, so the news media is not needed in those roles. The press best serves the public and nation by telling the truth. Hope this answer helps you, Kimberly.
