Read Item M below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 20 - 2017 - Paper 2

Increased Political Engagement: The rise of new media has empowered citizens to directly engage with political processes. Traditional media often gatekept information, favoring established narratives. However, with platforms like social media, individuals can share their perspectives, campaign for causes, and mobilize support for issues that matter to them. This has democratized information dissemination, allowing marginalized groups to voice their concerns and influence political discourse. As a result, political parties are compelled to respond to the views and needs of a broader demographic.

Misinformation and Polarization: While new media facilitates the spread of information, it can also propagate misinformation and contribute to political polarization. The ease of sharing content online means that false narratives or extremist viewpoints can quickly gain traction. This challenges the political process as individuals may make decisions based on misleading information. For instance, targeted ads and algorithm-driven content can create echo chambers, where users are only exposed to viewpoints that reinforce their beliefs, ultimately fracturing societal consensus and complicating the political landscape.