Maxwell McCombs

Maxwell McCombs is a communication scholar best known for his work on the "agenda-setting theory." This theory suggests that the media doesn't tell people what to think, but it influences what topics they consider important. In other words, the media's coverage helps shape public perception by highlighting certain issues more than others. McCombs's research shows that the topics the media emphasize often become dominant in public discussion and influence political and social priorities. His work highlights the powerful role media plays in shaping our understanding of the world around us.