Assertion (A): Media cannot set any agenda for national debates.

Reason (R): Media audience select contents of their choice.

Codes:

(A) Both (A) and (R) are true.

(B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

(C) (A) is true, but (R) is false.

(D) (A) is false, but (R) is true.

Correct Ans: (D)

Explanation:

Media plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. The agenda-setting theory suggests that media influences what people think about by highlighting specific issues. News organizations decide which topics to cover, how frequently to report them, and the angle they take. This process indirectly sets the agenda for national debates.

The assertion (A) claims that media cannot set any agenda for national debates, which is false. Media continuously influences political, social, and economic discussions. By prioritizing certain topics, it drives public interest and political action. Governments, policymakers, and the public often respond to issues highlighted in the media.

The reason (R) states that media audiences select content of their choice. This statement is true. With multiple platforms available, people engage with news that aligns with their preferences. However, media still plays a dominant role in shaping available choices. While audiences can select content, media organizations curate and present issues that ultimately guide public perception.

Since media does set the agenda for national debates, but audience preferences influence content selection, assertion (A) is false, while reason (R) is true. Therefore, option (D) is correct.