Final answer:
The Guardian in Platonic philosophy is an individual raised to exhibit high moral and intellectual virtues and to rule justly. Censorship, historically, is used by governments to control information and manage public perception, especially during conflicts. Media acts as a gatekeeper, shaping public perception by choosing which news stories are presented and how.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Function of the Guardian and the Purpose of Censorship
The concept of the Guardian is typically associated with Platonic philosophy, where individuals are raised from a young age to protect and rule the society with the highest moral and intellectual virtues. The guardians, including the philosopher-kings, are expected to be immune to narratives of misery or fear and to exhibit strong character, patriotic feelings, and a sense of honor. In terms of censorship, it has historically been a method utilized by governments to control civilian perceptions and manage dissent during times of conflict. The function of censorship is to limit access to information that might be seen as detrimental to the morale or interests of a state, especially during war.
Throughout history, censorship has extended to various media, including but not limited to newspapers, photos, and films. It aims to filter the content available to the public, often for political, moral, or security reasons. Controversies around freedom of expression have led to debates regarding the balance between liberty and regulation. Furthermore, with the advent of new media, the nature of gatekeeping has shifted, offering more individuals the ability to share information, though this too comes with its own form of self-policing and moderation.
When examining modern media outlets, it becomes apparent that even today, media acts as a gatekeeper, shaping public perception by choosing which stories to present and how to present them. Although there is freedom of the press, it is not absolute, and limitations exist to prevent slander and libel, ensuring responsible use of media's power.