Importance of Journalism

"Journalism is a guardian that never sleeps and protects freedom of the people" - Winston Churchill"

Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers or newspapers without government, I shall not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter." - Jefferson

"Newspapers are the schoolmasters of the common people". - Henry Ward Beecher

The importance of journalism comes from the people's right to opinion and expression. Since right to opinion and expression would not be a reality without the press. People today depend greatly on the press for being informed. Journalism is taken as inseparable part of any democratic system. The press plays a vital role in democratic society. It is an institution in its own right. The press has earned the recognition of 'Fourth state'. Journalism is the 'voice of the voiceless' and it plays the role of 'watch-dog' in our society. It is strong bridge between concerning authorities and the people. It handles all public issues. In fact, press is the people's open forum. Press makes such an environment where people get information and be prepared to take part in democracy. People's participation is the foundation of democracy. Press is the pillar of democracy.