What role do 'gatekeepers' typically play in shaping information flows in traditional news media?

In traditional news media, 'gatekeepers' play a critical role in shaping information flows by deciding what information is disseminated to the public. Gatekeepers are individuals or institutions that control access to information, determining which content is selected, edited, and presented. These gatekeepers can include editors, journalists, producers, and publishers. They filter the vast amount of information available, making choices about what is newsworthy, relevant, and appropriate for their audience. Their decisions influence public awareness and understanding of events, issues, and perspectives, effectively controlling the flow of information from its source to the consumers of news. They can also prioritize certain narratives or frame issues in specific ways, further shaping public discourse.