A Latvian dictionary of media and communications terms: pain of giving birth

The aim of this oral presentation is to justify, firstly, the necessity of precise and unified terminology of media and communications in Latvian language, both for the common understanding of the role of mass media in democratic society and by politics, especially media policy and media law, as well for the appropriate use within the media and communications  industry. Secondly, the necessity of close collaboration between linguists and media and communications scientists in the elaboration of the field’s terms, what is not the case until now. Thirdly, to outline the ways for the improvement, especially the creation of a Latvian dictionary of media and communications terms in cooperation with Latvian State Language Centre. Presentation shortly describes the current situation of Latvian terminology in the field. As a basis for argumentation is used the case analysis of some main terms, like mass media which is officially used as plašsaziņas līdzekļi, meaning means and not media. Such term is examined as a counterproductive one also from the terms system’s point of view, taking into account other officially approved terms, which, in opposite, include the precise name: mediju politika, medijpratība. Specific recommendations to elaborate a Latvian dictionary of media and communications terms are provided as the result of analysis made in presentation, among them the creation of interdisciplinary working group under umbrella of State Language Centre, leading by media and communications scientists from different Latvian universities. The systems theory in sociology and the division of powers principle in political science and law as a precondition for a democratic order and rule of law clearly indicates the necessity of separation of an autonomious mass media system with its own regularities and therefore with a precise terminology in Latvian language too. The Latvian dictionary of media and communications terms would be extraordinary helpful for that.