1. Sept 17 – Gov – The Media Agenda: Quick-Write
Policy Makers and The Media
Time to start reading “The Master of Spin”
Take out:
Pen/Pencil
Notebook
Homework:
Read and Annotate “The Master of Spin”
Generate THREE discussion-prompt questions
Be prepared for a discussion of the material on Wednesday

2. Quick-Write
What’s the point? How and why has the focus of news shifted?

3. Main Question:
Does the media make the system more democratic or is it a negative independent force operating outside of an in opposition to the democratic system?
To answer this question you must consider:
Its impact in America’s advanced technological society
How news is made and presented
How it impacts policymakers and the public

4. Power Who holds the power, policy makers, or the media?
Create a T-chart, and explain the power that each holds in their relationship

5. Power Media… Controls what is heard
Private media has freedom of choice
Trials baloons
Can present information as they see fit
Paid advertising
Focus incentivizes politicians to shape their coverage
Politicians…
Use the media to focus on what they want
TV= “electronic throne”
Reporters assigned to beats
Newsmakers have control
President get airtime for speeches
Paid advertising
Manage press releases
Control access

6. Vote #1: Who is more powerful?
Where does the power lie?
Is that good or bad?
Where should it be?

7. Vote #2:
Does the media make the system more democratic or is it a negative independent force operating outside of an in opposition to the democratic system?
Explain your answer.

8. Media’s real influence:
Most influential at the agenda-setting phase of the policy making process
Issue framing: once an issue is on the national agenda, media provide context for understanding that issue
Media companies are businesses, where the main objective is to make money.