Given below are two statements
Statement I: Mediated communication flourishes in a free and democratic environment.
Statement II: Power distortions always affect the flow of communication, whatever may be the political system.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below

Correct option is A

Statement I is correct because mediated communication (communication through a medium like television, newspapers, or the internet) thrives in environments that promote freedom of speech and expression. In democratic systems, where press freedom and the right to access information are protected, mediated communication can grow and serve as a channel for diverse voices and opinions.
Statement II is also correct. Power distortions refer to the influence of authority or hierarchy on communication flow. Regardless of the political system, whether democratic or authoritarian, power dynamics can distort communication. In democracies, power imbalances may arise from political, corporate, or social hierarchies. In authoritarian systems, censorship and propaganda are common tools that distort communication.
Information Booster 1. Mediated communication includes mass communication channels such as social media, TV, and print media.
2. Free environments enable transparency, accountability, and the spread of diverse perspectives.
3. Power distortions often result in biased or restricted information flow, impacting decision-making and public perception.
4. In authoritarian systems, distortion is overt (e.g., censorship); in democracies, it is subtler (e.g., corporate influence on media).