Final answer:
Newspapers play a crucial role in exposing societal issues through investigative journalism, a practice known as muckraking. They serve as a 'fourth estate' and have a significant impact on creating an informed public and fostering democratic engagement. Despite challenges in the digital age, print media remains relevant in educating and informing the public on various topics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Role of Newspapers in Highlighting Social Vices
The role of a newspaper is critical in highlighting the menace of social vices. Through muckraking, newspapers investigate problems in government and business settings to expose corrupt practices and contribute to societal changes. One of the key functions, as outlined by the options you've provided, would be B) Raising awareness and exposing societal issues. This involves in-depth investigative work, like the serialized novel The Jungle by Upton Sinclair, which exposes the poor working conditions in the meatpacking industry and led to reforms like the Pure Food and Drug Act.
Despite the rise of digital media, print media still educates and informs about political, economic, cultural, and social topics. However, the current 24-hour news cycle, combined with a decrease in the number of journalists, poses a challenge to the depth and quality of news content, potentially leading to a lesser-informed public. Exposing societal challenges through investigative journalism is essential for a healthy democracy, as it serves as a check on power and informs citizens about the actions of their leaders and important societal issues.
It is thus evident that newspapers play a multifaceted role in exposing social, political, economic, and cultural challenges, acting as the 'fourth estate' and aiding in fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry.