What is the concept of "agenda setting" in media communication?

The concept of "agenda setting" in media communication refers to the way in which the media influences the public's perception of the importance of certain issues. This is accomplished by highlighting specific topics, events, or issues in their coverage, thereby making them more salient in the minds of the audience. The media doesn't necessarily tell people what to think, but rather what to think about; by giving more attention to particular stories or themes, the media shapes the agenda of public discourse and ultimately influences what the public considers significant.

In the context of this concept, it's important to understand that the media's selection and emphasis on certain topics can lead to a shift in public priority and concern. This underscores the power of media to not only inform but also to mold public opinion based on which issues are deemed worthy of coverage.

The other concepts, while interrelated, do not encapsulate the essence of agenda setting. For example, altering public perception through repeated messages is more aligned with the idea of persuasion rather than setting the agenda. Framing stories to influence opinion is a related but distinct concept, focusing more on how the stories are communicated rather than what issues are prioritized. Limiting media access does not contribute to the agenda-setting theory, as it deals more with control over