The Invisible Scissors

A watchdog, a genuine fourth estate working in the service of a free and liberal democracy, diverse and discursive: this is what we expect of the media. This is how most of the media present themselves: altruistic, serving the interests of res publica and public opinion and promoting democratic discourse. And this is how most Swiss people see their media. Yet, does the shining image correspond to reality? Or are the much-praised journalistic Elysium of Switzerland and the diversity and quality of the Swiss media tarnished? And to what extent is freedom of the media guaranteed? This research into the mass media of Switzerland highlights the current threats to the freedom of the media and identifies the scissors of censorship. It scrutinizes the power of advertising, the battle for market share, the infiltration of PR agencies into editorial offices, the quality of journalistic training, self-censorship and infotainment as the supreme credo. The findings show that freedom of the media in Switzerland is severely jeopardised.

Autorentext
The Author: Marc Höchli is a Doctor of Philosophy. He worked as a journalist in print media and as a correspondent, editor and presenter in the information department of the Swiss National Radio DRS. Later, he managed his own communications company and was a lecturer in communications and media. Today, he holds the position of Commissioner for Communication of the Government of Canton Zug.

Inhalt
Contents: The Meanings of Censorship The Origins and Evolution of Media Freedom in Switzerland Media and Democracy Today International Obligations and the Freedom of the Media in Switzerland National Standards The Secretiveness of the Military Media Organisations and Journalists' Associations Education and Training in Journalism Print Media Radio and Television The Internet - Progressing by Fits and Starts The Power of Advertising Playing with the Truth Self-censorship and Blind Obedience The Failure of Media Journalism.