16.3 FRQ

Consider the broadcast networks’ desperate struggle to hold on to an ever-shrinking news audience. The problem is not that shallow, loud, or negative coverage of politics causes viewers to tune out in disgust. It’s that for many people shallow, loud entertainment offers greater satisfaction, and it always has. Now, such entertainment is available around the clock and in unprecedented variety. Television viewers have not abandoned the evening news out of frustration—they just found something more enjoyable.

 —Markus Prior

Question 1

Short answer
Describe the viewpoint expressed in the excerpt.

Question 2

Short answer
Describe an argument that would be made by a critic of the viewpoint expressed in the scenario.

Question 3

Short answer
Explain why the media’s role in setting the policy agenda is important in a representative democracy.

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