Review tHe reading materials and engage in the discussion topic of Media in Politics
- Read Chapters 6, 7, 8 & 9
- How Social Media Is Ruining Politics
- Social Media Are Ruining Political Discourse
After completing the background reading, engage in a discussion that provides your informed opinion on the topic. Make sure to include citations to your questions/responses to help your classmates develop a deeper understanding of the topic.
ENV.current_user_fullname, on the topic of Public Opinion and The Media - You must cover one of these questions in your original post.
- Since the advent of polling, political scientists have found that Americans don't know much about the details of political issues or even the names of many leading politicians. Education is one distinguishing factor that separates the politically sophisticated from the unsophisticated, but, since education levels have increased over the last half-century, why hasn't Americans' knowledge of politics increased? How does democracy survive given such low levels of political knowledge among Americans over time?
- Can democracy be sustained when so few people are involved in the political system? Voter turnout in a local election can run less than 10 percent, yet local governments are the ones that affect people more closely daily. Why do more people not vote in America? Explain.
- The role of public opinion influences how we view and make our political decision based on media, family, education, religion, race, etc. Please comment on any of those elements and how did it influence your political decision.
- Can the average American trust the media, given the amount of "fake news" that is placed on social media, I often wonder if we have a fair chance to understand the candidates and the political process. I will love to hear your comments.
Media in Politics: The Impact of Social Media on Political Discourse
In the realm of Media in Politics, the influence of social media on political discourse has become a topic of significant concern and debate. As highlighted in the reading materials and the articles "How Social Media Is Ruining Politics" and "Social Media Are Ruining Political Discourse," it is evident that social media platforms have reshaped the landscape of political communication and public opinion formation.
One key aspect to consider is how social media has transformed the way information is disseminated and consumed in the political sphere. While social media platforms offer unprecedented access to a wide range of voices and viewpoints, they have also been criticized for facilitating the spread of misinformation, echo chambers, and divisive rhetoric. This phenomenon has led to a polarization of political discourse, where individuals are more likely to engage with like-minded individuals and disregard opposing viewpoints.
Furthermore, the role of social media in politics raises questions about the reliability and trustworthiness of information sources. The prevalence of "fake news" and misinformation on social media platforms has undermined public trust in traditional media outlets and political institutions. This erosion of trust can have far-reaching consequences on public perception, decision-making processes, and ultimately, the functioning of democracy.
In addressing the question of whether the average American can trust the media amidst the proliferation of fake news, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of media literacy, critical thinking skills, and fact-checking mechanisms. Educating the public on how to discern credible sources from misleading information is essential in promoting an informed electorate and fostering a healthy democratic society.
Moreover, the role of education, family, religion, race, and other societal factors in shaping public opinion and political decisions cannot be overlooked. These elements influence individuals' values, beliefs, and perceptions of political issues, ultimately shaping their voting behavior and civic engagement. Understanding the interplay between these factors is vital in comprehending the complexities of public opinion formation and political participation.
In conclusion,
while social media has revolutionized political communication and engagement, it also poses challenges related to misinformation, polarization, and trust in the media. By promoting media literacy, encouraging civil discourse, and fostering a culture of critical thinking, we can mitigate the negative impacts of social media on political discourse and strengthen democratic practices in an increasingly digital age.