I’ve grown tired of one media outlet “reporting on” or “investigating” another media outlet. This is, perhaps, the most bold perpetration of selling out the consumer. This isn’t news, it’s propaganda.
It happens all the time, with programs focused on the entertainment sector, programs focused on politics, and most recently, it is happening with CNBC and the whistle-blowing Comedy Central (does anyone else see the irony here?).
I’m not going to link to it – if you haven’t heard the story, then just search for Jon Stewart or Jim Cramer – your efforts will be rewarded, I’m sure.
Suffice it to say that the whole thing is a ruse to help increase viewers of both programs. As far as I can tell, most anyone who appears in tabloid news programs and publications actually wants that exposure. This is what is happening with these two programs, and both Jim Cramer and Jon Stewart will benefit from the “buzz” with increased viewers.
Personally, I speak with real people in my real life about how to invest my money and time. You know, bankers, financial planners, people who are actually handling money and not just talking loudly about money? And I’m certainly not about to tune into the comedy channel for advice on any personal matter, be it financial, educational, or whatever!
I don’t “tune in” to determine where to store my accumulated wealth. Everyone seems so aghast and shocked that CNBC is actually sensationalizing the economic situation.
I say “So what?” Didn’t CNN sensationalize the Iraq War (they created a special logo to help “brand” it across their media properties, for goodness sake)? Didn’t all the public news outlets sensationalize 9/11?
Come on, people, wake up! TV stations work for the advertisers, not for the viewers. Who is writing the check, after all?
Viewers are just part of the “package” that the program offers to the advertiser. All the viewer needs is a reason for viewing that is simple to understand. If that reason is truth and sincerity, so be it. But often that isn’t the case. And the program is just as valuable to the consumer who’s seeking justification for her feelings of insecurity, if that justification is what the network delivers.
Same goes for a heightened sense of self worth (think Oprah), a sense of relief that someone else understands your problems (ala Dr. Phil), or simply the feeling that you aren’t so weird after all (Jerry Springer).
The bottom line: Take responsibility for what you invest in – it is your hard work that you’re investing, your time and labor. Understand and believe in what it is you’re purchasing.
