I do agree with Kendall’s assertion that the media does not simply mirror society but also helps shape it. Because trends shown on TV often become the reality in America because people want to act like what the TV portrays as the norm, thus making it the norm. In a way TV’s portrayals are a self-fulfilling prophecy because they become what they depict. Kendall’s assertion that the media distorts social mobility is clearly correct the media always makes it seem like those who are poor are only temporarily down on their luck, or are deserving of their position. The common depiction of the poor and homeless as crazy or dangerous in many crime dramas causes people to distance themselves from the poor rather than help them. While Kendal’s assertion that TV inclines people to run up credit card debt may be true it also shifts the blame, people should know, regardless of what TV tells them that if something is beyond their price range they should not charge it to a credit card or they will become in debt.
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Excllent blog post Chris. At first I was confused by your statement, "Because trends shown on TV often become the reality in America because people want to act like what the TV portrays as the norm, thus making it the norm". But upon reflection this is completely true - TV has enough power that it can force society into acting a certain way. Great insight! While I agree with your point that, "While Kendal’s assertion that TV inclines people to run up credit card debt may be true it also shifts the blame, people should know, regardless of what TV tells them that if something is beyond their price range they should not charge it to a credit card or they will become in debt", it's pretty clear that this is an issue for people. It's how we got into the current recession. It makes sense that you shouldn't buy what they can't afford, but people do it. I think that in this case, you and Kendal both have legitimate points. Nice post!
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