One of the most controversial issues about the media, is whether or not the news stations discuss too much bad news, and not enough good news. Some people feel that broadcasters should focus on more positive news topics, while others feel that bad news is what brings in the profits. This was the topic I chose to do my first reflection paper on, and wanted to share:
The process of deciding the precedence of news topics is a difficult and lengthy process. More often then not, the current developments are those of tragedy, placing bad news on the front pages around the community.
My first thought on the above topic is that the majority of television viewers enjoy drama, thus, taking pleasure in bad news. Bad news is often conflict, and makes for favorable stories. Controversy, violence, and disasters are popular topics among viewers, and grab people's interest. I think the reason behind this, is that people are more impacted by bad news, and it tends to stay with them longer. Whereas good news does not require you to think beyond the situation, bad news tends to make us dwell on the impacts in other areas. Some types of bad news create a sense of excitement.
My next thought is that the reporter can sometimes report good news negatively, thus, the news is perceived as bad news. For example, if someone were to commit a minor crime to help another in dire need, the reporter may only focus on the crime committed, and discuss very little about the benefit that came from the crime.
Most people will argue that the media is not to blame for the over representation of bad news. The news stations look at their coverage as airing what sells, and bad news sells. So, is there justified reasoning that news tends to be geared more so towards the negative? Well, in the end, the mainstream media favors whatever news brings in the most profit. And, understandably, if the media did not focus on what sells, who would be left to watch their programs?
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