An informed public depends upon accurate and effective reporting by the news media. no individual can obtain for himself the information needed for the intelligent discharge of his political responsibilities. for most citizens is hopelessly unrealistic. in seeking out the news the press therefore acts as an agent of the public at large. it is the means by which the people receive that free flow of information and ideas essential to intelligent self government. –lewis f. powell, 1974

summarize powell’s overall opinion of the relationship between the mass media and a democratic society.

a.) citizens should not depend on the media for their info
b.) the info provided by the press is inaccurate
c.) the relationship between the people and the press promotes intelligent self government
d.) citizens feel a personal connection to all newsworthy events