Final answer:
The Kerner Commission, Senate Subcommittee Hearing on Violence, and Surgeon General's report are examples of government entities addressing issues of race, media influence, and public safety. They highlight the media's role in framing issues and its impact on public opinion and policy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Kerner Commission, the Senate Subcommittee Hearing on Violence, and the Surgeon General's report on TV and Violence are all examples of governmental bodies or commissions undertaking research and making recommendations on issues related to social concerns and influence of media on public behavior. The Kerner Commission investigated the causes of the 1967 race riots in the United States, the Senate Subcommittee Hearing focused on examining the impact of media violence on society, and the Surgeon General’s report provided an assessment of the influence of television violence on viewers, particularly children.
With respect to media influence in politics and society, these entities have provided insight and sparked discussion on critical issues such as racism, media influence, and public safety. They serve to illustrate how media can frame issues, which might influence public perception and ultimately affect political decision-making and policy.
Regarding the broader role of the media in society and politics, the media is sometimes referred to as "the fifth branch of government" due to its significant influence in shaping public opinion. News agencies often play crucial roles in the political process, serving as a linkage institution by connecting the public with their governmental representatives, setting agendas for discourse, and framing the way issues are perceived. However, bias in media reporting and the impact of media on violence have been substantial concerns, as outlined by these commissions and hearings.