What's the difference between authoritarian theory and Soviet communist theory of mass communication as mentioned in Four Theories of Press?

The authoritarian theory and the Soviet communist theory of mass communication are two of the four normative theories of the press proposed by Siebert, Peterson and Schramm in their book Four Theories of the Press (1956). These theories describe how the press should operate in different political systems and how they relate to the government, the society and the public.

The authoritarian theory is based on the idea that the press should serve the interests of the government or a ruling elite. The press is subject to censorship and control by the authorities, who can punish or suppress any dissenting or critical views. The press has no freedom or autonomy, and its main function is to support the status quo and maintain social order. The authoritarian theory originated in 17th century England and was prevalent in Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy and other totalitarian regimes.

The Soviet communist theory is based on the idea that the press should serve the interests of the working class and the communist party. The press is owned or controlled by the state, which determines its policies and objectives. The press has no freedom or autonomy, and its main function is to educate, mobilize and indoctrinate the masses in accordance with the Marxist-Leninist ideology. The Soviet communist theory emerged in 20th century Russia and was adopted by other communist countries such as China, Cuba and North Korea.

The main difference between the authoritarian theory and the Soviet communist theory is that the former is based on a conservative and reactionary worldview, while the latter is based on a revolutionary and progressive worldview. The authoritarian theory aims to preserve the existing social structure and values, while the Soviet communist theory aims to transform them. The authoritarian theory views the public as passive and ignorant, while the Soviet communist theory views them as active and enlightened. The authoritarian theory denies any feedback or participation from the public, while the Soviet communist theory allows some feedback or participation within certain limits.

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