Problem: The Public Sphere and Democratic Communication Key Focus: Media as a space for public debate and discourse. Theories Covered: Habermas' Public Sphere Theory, Spiral of Silence (Noelle-Neumann), Public Opinion. Overview: In this topic, students will explore how media serves as a forum for democratic discourse and how public opinion is shaped by mass communication. Students will critically examine the concept of the "public sphere" and how mass media enables or constrains democratic participation. The spiral of silence theory will also be analyzed to understand how media influences the visibility of minority viewpoints. Discussion Points: How do media act as facilitators or barriers to democratic participation? What are the effects of media monopolies on public debate and opinion? Need Assignment Help?