3 ways that the media influences public opinion
1) Framing: The media has the power to shape public opinion by selectively highlighting certain aspects of an issue or event while downplaying or ignoring others. By framing a story in a particular way, the media can influence how people perceive and interpret the information, ultimately shaping their opinion on the matter.
2) Agenda-setting: The media has the ability to determine which topics or issues receive public attention and which ones are neglected. By prominently featuring certain stories and giving them more airtime or print space, the media can influence what the public deems important and worth discussing. This, in turn, affects public opinion as people tend to form opinions and attitudes based on the issues they are exposed to.
3) Bias and selective reporting: The media's bias in reporting can also influence public opinion. Whether intentional or unintentional, media outlets may have a particular viewpoint or leaning that affects how they present information. Biased reporting can create a skewed perception of events or issues, therefore shaping public opinion in a certain direction. Moreover, the media's decision to selectively report certain stories or facts while omitting others can also significantly impact public opinion by directly influencing the information people receive and base their opinions on.