Final answer:
It is true that journalists and news organizations aim to engage the public with news. Journalists seek out newsworthy topics to inform the electorate, and the media's role can influence public policy by acting as a gatekeeper of information. A true balance of power between the media, political entities, and the public is nuanced and can vary.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether a goal of both individual journalists and news organizations is to engage the public with the news and with the news provider is indeed true. Journalists and reporters actively seek out news stories in areas of public interest such as politics, business, and sports to inform the electorate. This kind of reporting is crucial for fostering a well-informed public that can engage in public debate and contribute to democratic processes. In the digital age, journalists also incorporate the Internet into their reporting to verify facts and gather background information, which underscores the importance of engaging with various media platforms to disseminate news.
The role of the media as a gatekeeper can influence public policy by highlighting certain topics while potentially neglecting others. This may not always reflect a true balance of power between political entities and the public, as the selection of news can shape public perception and discourse. The media's portrayal of events can consequently impact which issues are seen as important, affecting both public opinion and policy.