The Media Decides

No matter which news station you watch nowadays, whether it is CNN, FOX, or E!, most of the channels are broadcasting the same "news." We have grown to idolize celebrities and become obsessed with their personal lives because the media tells us that's what is important. You used to have to watch E! News to get gossip on celebrities, now there are other celebrity news shows such as TMZ and Extra, but it does not stop there. If you watch "legit" news stations such as FOX or CNN, I'm sure you've seen them plastered with Lindsey Lohan, Britney Spears, Tiger Woods, and Charlie Sheen. Our obsession stems from the media telling us that what Tiger Woods is doing in his personal is far more important than politics, world wars, or social issues and movements. I remember one time in my Communications Foundations class, my professor asked the class how many people heard about another earthquake in Japan, only 2 people. He asked what was going on with Charlie Sheen, why he was all over the news, and the entire class could answer. Anothe issue, positive newsworthy stories of accomplishment and success are scarce while violence, corruption, and celebrities flood the news stations. It is  important that we take everything we hear with a grain of salt. We must face it, the media is trying to make a buck and sometimes will turn things around, manipulate, and lie to do so.