Functions of the media/Gatekeepers

What are the agenda setting and gate-keeping functions of media?

The gatekeepers in media are the individuals belonging to the different organization who control and decide what will be read, shown, written or published in the various media outlets. The different types of media factor in the direct functioning of the gatekeepers. The theory of gate keeping informs us that the finished product we read in a magazine or see on television is the result of what is deemed important or newsworthy.  The agenda setting is used to persuade the public’s interests and beliefs in certain social and political issues. This is why on certain news stations we see more emphasis on certain topics because they are trying to sway the opinions of viewers.