AP US Government : Influence on Public Opinion

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP US Government

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Example Questions

Example Question #13 : Media Influence

Which of the following statements accurately describes the average American newspaper?

Possible Answers:

They often run detailed coverage of controversial political issues

It tends to strongly favor one political candidate over another

It heavily covers all elections

They are circulated to a national market

It is primarily oriented to its local market and local audience

Correct answer:

It is primarily oriented to its local market and local audience

Explanation:

In strong contrast to many other countries, American newspapers are primarily oriented to the local market and the local audience, and there is typically more local than national news inside. There are a few widely read national newspapers, such as the New York Times and the Washington Post, but these are the exception rather than the norm.

Example Question #14 : Media Influence

Which is not a role that the national press plays in relation to the federal government?

Possible Answers:

All of the other answers are roles that the national media plays in relation to the federal government.

Gatekeeper

Mediator

Watchdog

Scorekeeper

Correct answer:

Mediator

Explanation:

The media plays the role of gatekeeper because it can influence what subjects become national political issues and for how long. As scorekeepers, the national media helps keep track of the progress of various candidates in elections. As watchdogs, the media pays close attention to the politicians that they are interested in, and will expose corruption (as in the Watergate Scandal).

Example Question #15 : Media Influence

A salient issue is one that __________.

Possible Answers:

voters are uninformed about

people think about most

causes voters to stay home on election day

 has little impact on people’s daily lives

people don't care about

Correct answer:

people think about most

Explanation:

Salient is defined as the most noticeable or important. A salient issue is one that is topmost on people's mind. An example would be the economy during times of recession.

Example Question #16 : Media Influence

More than two-thirds of Americans report that they receive “all or most” of their political information from which source?

Possible Answers:

Television

Academic journals

Newspapers

The Internet

Radio

Correct answer:

Television

Explanation:

Since its invention, television has become the easiest accessible and most prevalent source of information. Additionally, 24 hour news networks provide the easiest means for people to acquire political information.

Example Question #17 : Media Influence

What is the principal effect of television on public opinion?

Possible Answers:

Persuading people to take a side on a political issue

Establishing new political ideals

Setting the agenda

Telling people how to think

Telling people what to think

Correct answer:

Setting the agenda

Explanation:

The most important impact of television is the agenda setting. News networks can choose what stories get the top of the hour and how much time to spend on them.

Example Question #18 : Media Influence

The first and most influencing group on one's political socialization is who?

Possible Answers:

The family

None of these

Religious leaders

Peers

Teachers

Correct answer:

The family

Explanation:

As early as 5 years old, young people start to assimilate and have affective feelings on political subjects provided by their interactions with their parents and family. This process continues until they form their own political worldview.

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