Study paper from 2010 in the field of Media/Communication - Journalism, Public Relations, Grade: 1.3, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (Institute for Journalism), Course: Topic Field Exercise: Journalism as a Profession, Language: German.

Abstract:

1. Introduction

The German Press Council sees itself as a control body for the press. As a moral authority, it could be referred to as the conscience of print media. In the Federal Republic of Germany, as a democratic state, the tasks of the Press Council include oversight and criticism of the state and society, which is why it is often referred to as the Fourth Estate. However, the work among journalists is often very controversial, necessitating intervention from the Press Council. With the journalistic principles, known as the Press Code, the publishing bodies have subjected themselves to voluntary self-regulation.