Mass Media
Define "media"
Good example: A form of communication to large groups of people. Media helps citizens stay informed on economic and political issues.
Define "propaganda"
The use of images or writings that specifically try to persuade people to think or feel a certain way.
Define "interest Group"
Good example: An interest group is a group of people who have a common interest. They try and influence the government to create or pass laws that further their interest group's cause.
Define "bias"
Good example: Showing favoritism or heavy one-sided support for one thing over another.
Which British Policy placed new taxes on items such as lead, paint, glass that further angered the colonists?
Correct answer: Townshend Duties/Act
What are at least TWO forms of media that people engage in?
Good example:
-Print Media (Newspapers, magazines)
-Digital Media (Websites, apps)
-Broadcast Media (TV, radio)
Define the "stacking the deck" or "card stacking" form of propaganda.
Good example: Listing only positive traits or accomplishments, and leaving out all negative information.
Give one example of an interest group that exists today in the United States
Good example:
- National Education Association
- NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People)
- Girl/Boy Scouts of America
- National Rifle Association
- American Civil Liberties Union
Define "prejudice"
Good example: A negative thought formed towards another person or group that is usually not based in fact, but incorrect assumptions.
This Enlightenment thinker is credited for the concepts of natural rights (life, liberty, property) and the social contract (people obey the govt, and the gov't protects/serves its people)
Correct Answer: John Locke
Explain how the media can serve as a "watchdog" for government organizations or officials.
Good example: The media can investigate possible corruption or illegal activities of the government or its leaders and expose them.
Why do governments and leaders around the world use propaganda?
Good example:
- To gain support for winning elections
- To encourage certain opinions of citizens regarding government issues such as war or taxes
- To maintain control and order over its citizens or society
Why do some citizens dislike interest groups?
Good example: Because they feel law makers or government leaders only listen to the needs interest groups instead of actual individual citizens.
How can bias leaders negatively impact our government?
Good example: They may only focus on certain things that they favor, and forget/choose not to focus on other things that are important for citizens.
This political party would be AGAINST off-shore oil drilling, because it typically supports actions or laws that do not hurt the environment.
Correct answer: Democrat
How was the presidency of Richard Nixon impacted by the media?
Good example: The media (Washington Post) uncovered illegal activity that Nixon was trying to cover up. He eventually had to resign after the Supreme Court learned about his crimes.
Why is "bandwagoning" a successful form of propaganda?
Good example: Because it makes others feel like they are left out or not part of the "cool" group, which convinces them to either support or purchase something.
Define "lobbyist"
Good example: A paid member of an interest group who is tasked with speaking to law makers to try and convince them to support their interest group when making laws or policy.
How can one be careful not to have/use too much bias?
Good example: Be informed and make sure to fully understand all sides of an issue before forming an opinion. Also be willing to accept new changes in thoughts and ideas.
If a case is heard for a second, third, or fourth time, it clearly is being heard in which type of court?
Correct answer: Appellate Court
List at least ONE way in which the media impacts our government or government officials.
Good example:
- Makes the government more honest
- Allows citizens to stay informed and voice their opinions to possibly change the government
- Makes the government more careful because it knows it will be watched
Explain why "endorsements/testimonials" are an effective form of propaganda
Good example: It uses someone super famous or popular to support your cause or product. People will likely also buy in if their favorite celebrity also does.
Which kind of interest group can legally give large sums of money to government candidates as donations for their elections?
Good example: Political Action Committees (PACs)
Why does the media often have bias?
Good example: The owners of that type of media choose how they want information to be spread, which often includes their personal bias.
The Antifederalists were fearful the new Constitution would not protect people's freedoms and rights. Therefore, they demanded the Federalists add WHAT to the Constitution before they chose to ratify?
Correct answer: The Bill of Rights