Chapter 1
1. American democracy today differs in many ways from the structure laid out by the founders. For
example, virtually all citizens – not just rich, White, landowners – now have the right to vote. Further,
2. The title of the chapter lists three ways to look at the role of American journalism: The mirror, the
watchdog and the marketplace. Which do you think best characterizes the role journalism plays in our
3. Legal scholars have argued that democracy needs a press that provides information dissemination,
accountability, representation, deliberation and conflict resolution. Are some of these needs more
4. Are the concerns raised by the Hutchins Commission still present today? Are they even more
problematic than they were more than 60 years ago? How would you respond to people today who