The functions of the media are to inform, educate, and entertain the general public. The question might be posed, however: does the media fulfill or fail these functions? Well, personally I believe that the media only partially fulfills its functions.
From my knowledge, I would think that the media does serve to inform the world, but only on topics and such that the media itself can benefit from. The media may only release news that will sell enough to turn in a profit for them. This leaves a big gap in information shared with the public.
Next, I believe that the media does partially serve to educate the general public. Due to the lack of honest information shared, the general public is left in a state of unconscious bias, where people are forced to base their opinions and ideas off of tainted information. Also, the media will occasionally present the public with completely false and unreliable information, which only serves as distraction facts that may expose powerful media handlers. Therefore, I believe that the media only partially serves to educate.
Finally, I do believe that the one sector the media is hugely successful and fulfilling it is entertainment. With the rise of social media and music and film being of such huge social significance, I would say the proof is in the pudding with this one. There is no question that the media fulfills to function to entertain the general public.
Furthermore, I believe that while the media does largely fulfill its functions, it undeniably has its downfalls. I don’t think the media will ever change its ways...