Write an essay response either agreeing or disagreeing with the following statement:

Despite the fact that in liberal-democratic societies the media is officially free from interference from the state, the media cannot truly perform its "fourth estate" function due to the influence of powerful interest groups who distort the message.

In answering your essay, you must, in no particular order: a) Explain the historical development of the media as a key component of the public sphere. 
(20 marks)

b) Analyse the possibilities and limits of the media in its public sphere role as a result of the various ways media agents can shape the message. 
(30 marks) c) Analyse the way in which the media can/cannot be used by special interest groups to disseminate a particular message. 
(30 marks)

d) Apply the use of an example or case study you are familiar with to support your argument. 
(20 marks)