Examining public service broadcasting as a global institution, this subject explores the impact of new technology - digital television, the Internet and on-demand platforms - and the implications these have for traditional values and goals. While the proliferation of global niche media with the uptake of digital and broadband technologies might seem to accelerate the demise of public service broadcasters, in reality digital free-to-air transmission and online platforms are rejuvenating the system and in many instances enhancing its role as a risk taker and innovator. Public broadcasting manifests as both state owned and state controlled evoking oppositional associations - of impartiality, independence, quality, diversity, integrity, or as propagandist, excluding dissent and serving as the mouthpiece of government. This unit will cover the range of dilemmas and possibilities facing this institution, drawing on case studies that underline national differences.

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