Destrukcyjne tendencje we współczesnej telewizji

Abstract

Until very recently the separation of the basic functions of mass media seemed an easy task. A reflection on the nature of mass media ended in producing a long, though impermanent, list of functions which has a visible tendency for fluctuation. Some functions soon faded, some appeared unexpectedly. In post-communist countries the relentless propaganda of the totalitarian system gave way to a mitigated political propaganda. The media gained additional power and became an efficient check tool of exercising power. These functions of the media which once seemed undisputed: informative, entertaining and educational (and sometimes tutorial), were placed on top of the above mentioned list. The transformation process on the market of media communication is indeed taking place so fast that its results are difficult to foresee. We already hear about a media civilization, a tele-world, a media market, m-education, the Web generation and even about man as a medium for the media. One ting, however, is certain – we cannot be indifferent to this process. Whether or not the TV of the future continues to have its "anti-educational" face, depends to a great extent on the viewer. In accordance with the rules of the game on the free market, it is the viewer who has a trump card in his hand – a remote control – and by just pressing on and off can decide about the fate of a destructive program, at least in his own world.