Question

""They have strived to overawe or seduce printers to stifle and obstruct a free discussion, and have endeavored to hasten it to a decision before the people can duly reflect upon its properties. In order to deceive them, they incessantly declare that nine can discover any defect in the system but bankrupts who wish no government, and officers of the present government who fear to lose a part of their power"

In other words, the writer is trying to say that the people in charge have made the media (newspaper printers) focus on the arguing rather than the new Constitution, and instead of discussing the concerns with the new Constitution, they claim that anyone who finds fault with it is just concerned about losing their own power. Do you think this still happens today? Explain your answer."
Options:
1. Yes, this kind of manipulation and discrediting of critics still happens today.
2. No, this kind of manipulation and discrediting of critics is no longer prevalent in modern times.
3. It happens to some extent, but not as prominently as described by the writer.
4. I'm not sure.

Answer 1

Yes, the manipulation of the media and the discrediting of critics referenced in the historical context continue to be relevant issues today. The core issue of influencing public opinion through the media persists, illustrating the ongoing relevance of the First Amendment and freedom of the press.

Step-by-step explanation:

The concerns raised by the writer reflect ongoing practices of media manipulation and the discrediting of critics in modern times. While the context and technology may have evolved, the core issue of using the media to sway public opinion and suppress dissent persists. The history of the First Amendment and freedom of the press in America highlights the press's key role in safeguarding democracy by informing the electorate and offering a counterweight to governmental power. Yet, as witnessed in the past, governments and political factions often engage in efforts to direct the media narrative to maintain power or push certain agendas. This has been further complicated by the rise of digital media, where information and misinformation can spread rapidly. In light of historical examples from the Federalist and Anti-Federalist Papers to modern-day concerns about 'fake news' and press freedom, it's clear that manipulation of the media and the discrediting of opposition voices remain relevant issues.