The development media theory: How relevant to the Nigerian press and National development?

Abstract

The development media theory, one of the normative theories of the press, is a working theory used to explain how the mass media is a reflection of the socio-economic conditions in which it operates. This article reviews these normative theories, namely, the authoritarian media theory; the soviet-communist theory; the libertarian media theory (or the free press theory); social responsibility media theory, democratic participant media theory and the development media theory. Particularly, it examines one of these theories - the development media theory of the press, outlines its characteristics and looks at the role the press should play under this theory with a view to seeing if this theory is appropriate to the Nigerian situation and its press considering their level of development. The article concludes that the development media theory, with some modifications, is best for the Nigerian situation. It recommends that the Nigerian press should deliberately propagate, promote and protect democratic values and institutions, national economic development, Nigerian culture, and links with sister African nations and the developing world.