Here are expected questions from the chapter Understanding Media, Class 7 Politics

1. What is meant by media?

Media is a word collectively used to refer to the radio, newspapers, TV, the internet and several other forms of communication. It describes the various ways through which we communicate in society.

2. What do you mean by mass media?

Forms of media such as television, radio, newspapers and the internet reach millions of people or the masses across the country and the world. Thus they are called mass media.

3. What is print media?

Print media is a word used to refer to newspapers, magazines, journals and other printed publications.

4. What is electronic media?

Electronic media is a word used to refer to television, radio and the internet.

5. How has the television brought the world closer to us?

Sitting in front of the television set in our drawing room, we can now watch the live coverage of events happening all over the world. Television images travel huge distances through satellites and cables and this allows us to view news and entertainment from different parts of the world. Thus television has brought the world closer to us.

6. The role of media in a democracy

In a democracy, the media plays a very important role in providing news and information to the general public. Media reports events taking place in different parts of the country and world. Based on this information, citizens can learn how the government works. If they are not happy with the performance of the government, they can write letters to the ministers concerned, organize public protests or start a signature campaign. Thus media ensures that people stay informed.

7. Why is it important for media reports to be balanced?

Media plays an important role in shaping public opinion. Hence, it is important for media reports to be balanced. Otherwise, people reading only one newspaper will get to know only one side of the story. A balanced news report discusses all aspects of a particular story and then leaves it to the readers to make their own judgement.

8. Why is it important to have independent media in a democracy?

Media plays an important role in a democracy by making people aware of the news and happenings around them. Only independent media can report all aspects of a news story without any bias. Since media reports shape public opinion, it is important for people to have unbiased information. Only then can people take appropriate action.

9. What is independent media?

Independent media means media that is not influenced or controlled by anyone. Independent media can give all aspects of a given news story without any bias.  

10. Is media independent?

No. Media is far from independent for two reasons. The first reason is the control the government has on the media. The second reason is that most media houses are owned by large businesses that have their own business interests to protect. For example, media make money from advertisements. Hence, it is difficult for media to write against companies that give them advertisements. Because of these reasons, media reports are often biased.

11. What is censorship?

When the government prevents a news item, a scene from a movie or the lyrics of a song from being shared with the larger public, it is called censorship.

12. What does it mean when it is said that the media ‘sets the agenda’?

The media decides what stories are worth covering. By focusing on particular issues that might interest the public, the media influences our thoughts, feelings and actions. Due to the significant influence it plays in our lives and in shaping our thoughts, it is often said that the media sets the agenda.