Understanding Government Influence and Monitoring

The video explores how the U.S. Constitution grants power to the federal government and the role of democracy. It discusses three groups that influence and monitor the government: individuals, the media, and interest groups. Individuals can vote, petition, protest, or run for office. The media acts as a gatekeeper and watchdog, influencing public opinion and government behavior. Interest groups lobby for support and use political action committees to fund candidates. The video emphasizes the importance of these groups in shaping government actions.

What is the main question addressed in the introduction of the video?

• What are the branches of the government?

• Who influences the government and how?

• How are laws made?

• How does the government function?

What is one of the most effective ways individuals can influence the government?

• Watching the news

• Attending town hall meetings

• Voting

• Writing letters

What can individuals do if they feel their vote is not making an impact?

• Move to another country

• Stop paying taxes

• Ignore the issue

• Petition the government

Why are individuals generally not good at monitoring the government?

• They are too busy with personal responsibilities

• They don't have access to information

• They lack interest

• They don't have the necessary skills

What is the primary role of the media in relation to the government?

• To create laws

• To run for office

• To act as a gatekeeper and watchdog

• To fund political campaigns

What does the term 'gatekeeping' refer to in the context of media?

• Monitoring social media activity

• Controlling access to government buildings

• Blocking certain websites

• Deciding which stories to report

How does media bias affect news reporting?

• It ensures all stories are covered equally

• It increases the accuracy of news

• It eliminates the need for advertisements

• It leads to favoritism towards certain political parties

What is the main goal of interest groups?

• To run for political office

• To influence government policy

• To entertain the public

• To monitor social media

What is lobbying?

• Running for office

• Voting in elections

• Seeking to influence lawmakers

• Reporting news

What is the purpose of a political action committee (PAC)?

• To raise money for candidates

• To run for office

• To monitor government activities

• To create new laws