CONTENT STATEMENT
- Informed citizens understand how media and communication technology influences public opinion.
CONTENT ELABORATION
Media and communication technology influences public opinion through a variety of means. Historically, this includes improvements in printing, mail delivery, distribution of newspapers, and the telegraph, which heightened public awareness and provided information. They also exposed people to arguments, emotional appeals, and propaganda. Pamphlets, books and newspaper articles influenced public opinion in early American history. The invention of the telegraph transformed news and hastened the rise of independent, mass-circulation newspapers in the 19th century.
EXPECTATIONS FOR LEARNING
Explain how media and communication technology influence public opinion.