The involvement of the mayor in a Ponzi scheme garnered extensive media coverage, which caused people to discuss and debate the issue. Which stage of evolution of an issue is this, and how does it contribute in forming a public opinion?

a) Public awareness; this makes the issue a matter of public discussion
b) Definition of issue; this stimulates the media
c) Involvement of opinion leaders; this makes people aware of the issue
d) Government involvement; this builds a public agreement

a