Public Opinion as an Indicator of Mass Media Social Demand

Abstract

The article deals with the influence of mass media on the formation and reproduction
of national culture and self-consciousness. The purpose of the study is to analyze the existing theories
about the influence of the media on the audience and to identify which topics of media messages are most
in demand by the population of the Republic of Belarus. The author relies on the results of a sociological study conducted by the Institute of sociology of the NAS of Belarus in determining the sectors important
for the economy of Belarus, traces the close relationship of the media with society and notes the problems
that most concern the audience. It is concluded that due to its authority and efficiency in reporting the
events, the mass media of Belarus is one of the main sources of influence on public opinion.