such as soldiers dieing in Iraq. We arent doing bad, they can vote etc.
2006-11-11 16:06:12 · 6 answers · asked by classified c 1 in News & Events ➔ Media & Journalism
First of all, I reject your premise as not entirely true. If the media didn't cover elections in Iraq, then exactly where did you hear about it? And most papers make a conspicuous effort to find stories that are uplifting, quirky, or cheerful.
But second of all: in general, things going well isn't newsworthy. It's nice to know that Mrs. Next-door does great things for the community, and that the So-and-Such Organization is going great. But when there are problems - wars, strife, disaters, corruption - that's when it becomes vital that the general populace knows. If the media didn't focus on them, they wouldn't be doing their jobs. (On a more cynical note, it also, despite many protests to the contrary, sells more papers.)
PS: Judging by the result of Tuesday's midterms, if you still feel that we're not "doing bad" in Iraq, you're among a definite minority. The country is, by any account, on the verge of civil war.
2006-11-11 16:14:37 · answer #1 · answered by sophicmuse 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because humans are attracted to such things as death and destruction. Look at the way people stop at an accident to see whats going on, yet few people will stop when it is a "nice " thing happening. We are drawn to the macabre
2006-11-12 00:11:48 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's to keep the general American public afraid. Fear is a very powerful emotion, and it can, among other things, cause people to go out and buy stuff to feel better. Sad but true. I believe Marilyn Manson (of all people!!) had something really good to say about this in the movie Bowling for Columbine. Fear is a strong element in consumerism.
2006-11-12 00:16:18 · answer #3 · answered by lilpointyhat 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it has to do with bad news attracting more attention then good news. I hear that British media is worse, because there are so many of them, that they are in constant compotition for audiences.
2006-11-12 00:17:06 · answer #4 · answered by crashvander 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's ALL about getting viewers, they don't care about anything else. Good news does not attract viewers, or create sensationalism. Therefore, good news takes a back seat to horrifying, depressing, and shocking news.
2006-11-12 00:13:20 · answer #5 · answered by Memphis qt 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
ratings!!! higher ratings equal higher advertising dollars and thus fatter paychecks. why do people look at the horrible traffic wrecks?! there are many many good things going on -- contact your local military base/unit and they will be more than happy to share the positive things.
2006-11-12 00:14:05 · answer #6 · answered by Marysia 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋