What is defined as the activity of promoting or opposing an idea in a public setting?

The correct answer is advocacy because it specifically refers to the act of promoting or opposing an idea in a public context. Advocacy involves actively supporting a cause or a viewpoint and can take various forms, such as campaigns, speeches, or public demonstrations. It seeks to influence public opinions and decisions, making it distinct in its focus on taking a stance and rallying others around a particular issue.

While public discourse does pertain to discussions in a public space, it encompasses a broader range of conversation and dialogue, not solely focused on advocacy or opposition. Argumentation involves the structured presentation of reasons and evidence to support or refute claims, but it may not always be conducted in a public setting, nor does it necessarily entail promoting or opposing ideas actively. The term audience refers to the group of individuals receiving a message but does not capture the proactive aspect of advocating for or against an idea.