The Media

Which of these is a role of public opinion in a democracy?

• to determine election results

• to guide the actions of public officials

• to reflect political leaders’ ideas

• to shape the views of media members

An issue gaining in importance as a result of television news coverage is an example of what influence on public opinion?

• gender

• income

• interest groups

• mass media

What is the name of an interest group that tries to influence the government to take actions that will benefit large numbers of people?

• economic group

• public-interest group

• Professional interest group

• rights group

Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects the freedom of the press?

• First

• Second

• Fourth

• Fifth

Who do lobbyists represent in their attempts to influence government?

• military officers

• elected officials

• interest groups

• circuit judges

Which example represents the media acting as a watchdog?

• A journalist discovers that an office holder held a hearing.

• A journalist discovers that an office holder accepted a bribe.

• A journalist discovers that an office holder decided to retire.

• A journalist discovers that an office holder voted against a bill

Which best describes the main objective of a lobbyist?

• to influence state legislators or members of Congress to pass laws that benefit their interest group

• to raise campaign funds for political parties

• to influence public decision-making to benefit the common good

• to advise political candidates on how to manage their election campaigns

The term news Media refers to

• the groups that ask for information to people

• the groups that communicate information to people

• the groups that communicate information and news to people

• the groups that ask for information and news to people

Which idea provides the best basis for the news media's role common-carrier of information?

• The news will be available to all citizens.

• The various news organizations should interpret the news in nearly the same way.

• The press should not charge for public service announcements.

• The press should provide a channel through which political leaders can communicate their views to the public.

Which of the following best describes the function of media as a watchdog?

• It exposes officials who violate accepted legal, ethical, or performance standards.

• It alerts the public to important developments as soon as possible after they happen.

• It serves as a conduit through which political leaders communicate with the public.

• It acts as an advocate for a particular viewpoint or interest.