Hypodermic needle notion – UGC NET Question

The hypodermic needle theory,also called the magic bullet theory,portrays media audiences as passive targets that receive and accept messages uniformly,as if injected with a drug. The stem describes exactly this notion of direct injection into passive audiences. Therefore hypodermic needle theory is the correct answer.

Option A:
This theory reflects early concerns about propaganda and assumes minimal resistance or interpretation on the part of receivers. Although later theories challenged its simplicity,it remains an important historical concept,matching the description well.

Option B:
Two step flow theory instead emphasises that media effects are mediated by opinion leaders and are not simply direct injections.

Option C:
Agenda setting theory focuses on how media influence which issues people consider important,rather than on direct acceptance of messages.

Option D:
Spiral of silence theory explains why individuals with minority opinions may remain silent due to fear of isolation,which is distinct from the hypodermic view.