WorldThe ConversationWhy the Paramount-Warner merger is a problem for democracy
A massive US$110 billion merger created Skydance Corporation, combining CNN, CBS News, HBO and Paramount, raising concerns about media power and democratic oversight.
The Paramount merger may make good business sense, but research shows putting more media power in fewer hands can come at a cost to the common good of citizens.
Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery created Skydance Corporation, a media giant valued at about US$110 billion including debt.
Skydance now owns CNN, CBS News, HBO, Paramount Pictures and a vast collection of cable networks, sports and entertainment franchises.
Scholars warn that concentrating so much media power in one company can undermine the independent reporting and diversity of voices that democracy depends on.
The merger's editorial independence board for CNN and CBS News is worth watching, as it will shape the news millions of people rely on for political information.
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