1. Several websites offer perspectives on public affairs that differ considerably from those presented by more well-known news organizations. One site maintained by "Project Censored" illustrates the power of news media as gatekeepers. Each year Project Censored publishes a list of stories that the organization feels have not received adequate coverage in mainstream publications. Visit its website: http://www.projectcensored.org/intro.htm. Are you familiar with any of the stories Project Censored lists as important? Why do you think these stories didn't get more widespread coverage?

2. George Gerbner, a communication researcher who has studied violence on television for many years, has started an organization designed to address the "cultural environment" promoted by commercial television. Visit the website: http://www.web.net/blackrosebooks/cem2.htm. Do you share any of the objectives listed in the "Viewers' Declaration of Independence"?