5.13  Changing Media

The media landscape is shifting as it moves away from traditional forms of delivering political news, like radio and cable TV, toward online platforms. This change gives Americans access to an almost endless supply of political information. The media significantly influences public opinion, educates citizens about political matters, and encourages political involvement. The way news is reported can greatly affect how people perceive politics and how engaged they are in the political process. However, many experts believe these changes may have more negative effects than positive ones.

For example, how the media covers specific political issues can shape public perception. Extensive coverage of a topic can raise awareness and concern, prompting greater public participation. The Flint water crisis in 2014 is a case in point; media attention on the contaminated water issue led to increased activism and engagement in the community.

Analysis and commentary from media professionals also impact political involvement by influencing public views on political topics. Commentators and journalists offer detailed insights on events, helping citizens understand complex matters and make informed choices. For instance, coverage of the 2020 US presidential election provided clarity on the candidates' positions and qualifications, which affected how engaged people were and how they voted.

Additionally, media portrayal of political events can alter public perceptions of the political process itself. If the focus is on the importance of voting and community involvement, it may inspire citizens to take action. Conversely, if politics is depicted as being overrun by special interests and corruption, it can lead to disinterest and apathy among the public.

The media also informs citizens about political candidates and their platforms, especially during elections. This information is vital for making educated decisions, whether that means voting or getting involved in political activities.

Finally, the way the media covers political events can shape how people view the effectiveness of government and the political system. Focusing on scandals, corruption, and inefficiencies can lead to negative perceptions, discouraging participation. In contrast, highlighting positive achievements can inspire engagement and foster a more optimistic view of politics.

As the media landscape evolves, more Americans are showing confirmation bias by looking for information that supports their existing beliefs. This phenomenon is evident daily on social media, where Facebook friends and Twitter followers share articles, videos, memes, and other material that validate their viewpoints. Consequently, social media has put significant pressure on news organizations regarding what and how to report. This situation has led to a rise in consumer-driven media that prioritizes attracting large audiences, sometimes sacrificing the quality of news coverage.

Even though Americans have more access to political news than ever before, many are often misinformed due to careless media habits. The sharing of political content on social media has increased interactions among those with similar views, but it hasn't necessarily resulted in a better-informed public. Many people consume political news without verifying the credibility of their sources. Political experts worry that this consumer-driven media environment could worsen and lead to a dangerously uninformed voter base. They believe the solution lies in exercising greater caution when engaging with political news.