The power of the press

Citation

(2002), "The power of the press", Work Study, Vol. 51 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/ws.2002.07951eaa.005

The power of the press

The power of the press

The memory of the funeral of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother is still vivid. The scenes that greeted both the lying-in-state and the funeral itself were remarkable for the sheer numbers of people that "took part" and expressed their "respects". This was, of course, in a modern, cynical country where Royalist views are seldom voiced. Whatever one's personal views on the institution of the monarchy, it is clear that there is still much sympathy for the people within the Royal Family, if not in the monarchy itself – and I'm not sure that the great mass of people aren't still essentially royalist. Reading the press makes one think the country is moving towards republicanism – but the people who write for the press aren't "the people". It's a moot point as to whether the press creates public opinion or mirrors it. In this case, the demonstrations of public respect suggest that on this issue the press may be out of step with (in front of?) the populace. I hope they noticed and adjust accordingly. The lesson – which is why I'm mentioning it here – is that "the public" (our customers) will be led and go quietly for so long, but they tend to re-assert themselves just when you're not expecting it. If you get too far out of line, you're in danger.