What does agenda-setting in communication entail?

Agenda-setting in communication refers to the process by which certain issues, topics, or events gain prominence in the public discourse and are prioritized in the minds of audiences. This concept emphasizes that media and communication channels play a crucial role in shaping what people consider important. Therefore, determining the importance of issues is central to agenda-setting, as it influences what the public discusses and how they perceive various topics.

When an issue is highlighted more than others, it affects how people think about those issues and their relevance in society. The media’s focus does not just tell us what to think, but importantly, it also guides us on what to think about, thus shaping public priorities and perceptions effectively.

In contrast, choosing the topic of discussion might seem connected to agenda-setting but does not capture the nuance of the process, as it can be too narrow and not necessarily involve the role of perceived importance. Reviewing personal beliefs is more about introspection rather than influencing public discourse, while setting the stage for debate can arise from agenda-setting but is more about the dynamics of discussion rather than the foundational concept itself.