Chapter 8 Essay Questions


You have previously been assigned ONE of the following essay questions. Prepare your response, following the designated INSTRUCTIONS.


1.    How has the Court attempted to solve the problems that arise between protecting  the freedom of the press and the right that a person has to a fair trial?

2.    What are "shield laws" and what protections do they entail?

3.    What relationship exists between the press and the government? Describe the role  that the electronic and print media play in the process of "managing public  opinion." What roles do "leaks" and "backgrounders" play in this process? Explain  the difference between the two roles.

4.    Describe and discuss some of the criticisms of the press.

5.    Is the press biased? Discuss.

6.    Is the press conservative or liberal?

7.    Is there objectivity in the press?

8.    Describe government misinformation and the press.

9.    What are some of the major problems between the press and the military in war  times?

10.  What are some of the constitutional and nonconstitutional roles of the press in a  democratic society?

11.  Describe the First Amendment as it applies to the press.

12.  Describe the press as a linking institution.

13.  What is the difference between "prior restraint" and "censorship"?

GOVT 2305  American Government and Politics
Cathedral High School, El Paso, Texas
Last updated:  June 2004