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American Government / Unit 6   Gov 252 short lesson, about 20 seconds

The Watchdog Role

Captions available

The idea

The media serve as watchdogs of society and public officials, sounding an alarm when the public needs to pay attention.

In practice

Some call the press the fourth estate, standing watch alongside the three branches.

Where people slip

Watchdog and paparazzi can be the same outlet on the same day — the roles blur.

Your place on the trail

Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.

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