What does a mass meeting lack that formal assemblies typically have?

A mass meeting generally lacks a formal agenda, which is a structured outline of the topics to be discussed. Unlike formal assemblies, where an agenda is essential for guiding the meeting and ensuring that specific points are covered in an organized manner, mass meetings tend to be more spontaneous and less structured. This allows participants to raise issues freely and engage in open discussion without being confined to a predefined list of topics.

The absence of an agenda in mass meetings contributes to their informal nature, enabling a more fluid exchange of ideas and less rigidity in the proceedings. While other elements such as attendance restrictions, bylaw requirements, and designated leaders may play crucial roles in the operation of formal assemblies, the defining characteristic that sets mass meetings apart is the lack of a predetermined agenda. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes this key distinction.