Explain what is meant when FOIA exemptions are described as discretionary, not mandatory.

What will be an ideal response?


Any answer simply needs to explain that the FOIA allows agency decision-makers to decide themselves whether to deny access to records. Even if a record being sought squarely falls under the parameters of an exemption, an agency may disclose it nevertheless. Thus, the exemptions are not mandatory. They are exercised at the discretion of those at the particular agency. An additional factor can be any decision-making guidance issued by high-ranking federal government officials. Edicts may be issued, for example, requiring agencies to operate in a less-than-discretionary manner.

Communication & Mass Media

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Miguel's big graduation party had been planned for weeks. His best friend approached him the day before the party and told him, "I won't be able to make it to your party because something came up.". Miguel was shocked. He felt that his best friend was either in big trouble over something or that they weren't really friends after all. What kind of relationship rule was Miguel following?

a. constitutive b. regulative c. arbitrary d. concrete e. contextual

Communication & Mass Media

The key conclusion to be drawn from the "Facebook Friends = Brain Power" case is that

A) Facebook "mavericks" lead the pack in new friend requests. B) Too many friends can begin to diminish brain power. C) having lots of Facebook friends may affect your brain. D) friends with lots of friends may positively affect your organization's communication strategy. E) Both C and D.

Communication & Mass Media

The purpose of a hypothetical illustration is to convince your listeners that an untrue story is true

Indicate whether the statement is true or false

Communication & Mass Media

The approach to listening that emphasizes concentrating on language, ideas, and details as well as remembering the knowledge is called ________ listening

a. informative b. instructional c. explanatory d. critical

Communication & Mass Media