Whatsoever

The first leader of the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation), John Reith, built the organization on strong Christian values. He adopted the motto “Quaecunque” (“Whatsoever”) from the Bible, emphasizing that broadcasting should promote truth, integrity, excellence, and things worthy of praise. This biblical influence was even reflected in the dedication plaque at BBC Broadcasting House, reminding generations to focus on “whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise.” (Philippians 4:8)

Public debate John Reith was right that public broadcasting or television media should create awareness of important issues. The social sins should be identified, and a remedy should be worked out through debates, discussions, and dialogues. The media has a responsibility to raise issues that concern people, rather than whitewashing them as if they do not exist. Or distract people from real issues and make them emotionally stirred about trivia that will not benefit people.

Progressive thoughts The role of media is to teach, instruct, and propagate thoughts that inspire love, faith, hope, truth, and righteousness. Superstitions, folk knowledge without scientific basis, blind faith, empty rituals, and demeaning traditions should be denounced and should not be promoted. Sadly, the media today wants to please people who are not progressive; hence, it promotes damaging and regressive ideas. Progressive ideas are prophetic voices that could direct a nation if the media amplifies them.

Training Media could be used as a tool for mass training. Sadly, it is used by politicians to make false propaganda, polarize, and mislead people. Advertisers mislead people to become greedy, have a consumeristic attitude, and an entitlement mentality. Also, advertisers try to destroy the dignity and self-worth of a person by presenting the lack of the advertised product as shameful. Peter calls this training in greed. (II Peter 2:14)

Uplift Media could empower and uplift people. People who contribute sincerely to society, but not in the limelight, should be highlighted by the media. Like offers of free tuition in schools for poor children, the media could provide free online tutoring for the marginalized.