Author(s): Robert Manne

Issues/Current Affairs

In the third Quarterly Essay for 2011, Robert Manne investigates the forces that shape public debate in Australia. When it comes to key issues for the nation, who sets the media agenda and how do they do it? Since the 1980s, mainstream coverage of politics in Australia has become less and less diverse. Debate has narrowed and media power has been concentrated. At the same time, the press sees itself as a player - judge, jury and would-be executioner of leaders and policies. Is this a dangerous case of power without responsibility? Manne asks: from refugees to carbon taxes, from going to war to rethinking multiculturalism, how well are we being served by the media? This brilliant and important essay is part analysis and part vivid case study of what happens when the media goes rogue. It is certain to spark debate, controversy and questioning.