In modern democracies,citizens do not control the state directly.Which of the following is (are) (a) means of controlling the state in modern democracies?

A) political parties
B) lobbies
C) mass media
D) public opinion
E) all of these choices

All of the choices listed - political parties, lobbies, mass media, and public opinion - are means of controlling the state in modern democracies. Political parties compete for power and influence by running for office and advocating for policies, while lobbies represent specific interest groups and try to influence policy decisions. Mass media provides information and sets the public agenda, and public opinion can sway elected officials to act in accordance with their constituents' preferences. Together, these different actors help hold elected officials accountable and ensure that the state acts in the interest of the people.