Ο ρόλος του κράτους στα ραδιοτηλεοπτικά μέσα επικοινωνίας: Μύθος καί πραγματικότητα

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to expose the myth at the core of the conventional wisdom regarding state broadcasting as a «public service». This is accomplished through an interpretation of it that is based on the theoretical understanding of the modem interventionist state as a new bearer of capital, as estate capital» which replaces or competes with the traditional bearer of capital, private enterprise. Special emphasis is given to the analysis of the mechanisms which reveal the capitalist nature of public corporations, as well as the inherently self-seeking behaviour of their personnel. Finally, the article examines the role of the balance of power between state and private capital in ultimately determining the extent and form that state control of broadcasting assumes at any given period and/or social formation. This role is demonstrated by examining the events leading to the dominance of commercial radio/television in the us, to Europe’s state monopoly of broadcasting up to the late ’70s and to policies of deregulation and privatisation ever since.