The Problem of the Media: U.S. Communication Politics in the Twenty-First Century
by Robert McChesney
Robert McChesney, a name I know as well as my own, has written an insightful and necessary book. I took a class in college entitled “Media and Politics”, and the entire semester we studied, referenced, and wrote papers about Mr. McChesney’s work. One of the best parts about this book is the lack of political polarization of potential readers. You don’t have to be a Democrat or Republican to enjoy and learn from this book. And, it was written in 2004, so there’s no mention of any current politicians. The current political climate is a touchy one, so when you read this book, you can take comfort that the author isn’t leaning in any particular direction.
I’ve written so many papers on this book, it will be difficult to keep my review concise. Basically, this incredible book sheds light on the power the media has in shaping the public’s political awareness and views. If you think the media can do no wrong, this book will shock you. If you knew the media was a little corrupt, you’ll still be shocked at the depth of power the media possesses. “The Media” isn’t really as diverse as it appears. Only a handful of individuals own all the media outlets on the planet (This book was written before folks created YouTube channels and spouted their opinions), so if one person has a view he wants espoused, potentially one-third of all media outlets will espouse his view.
Unless you’re a political science student, there’s a high likelihood you aren’t aware of the power of lobbying. This book will educate you. McChesney also discusses journalistic bias, and the problem of not only telling people what to think, but what to think about. If a news outlet decides not to cover a story at all, they are still shaping the public’s view on it.
It may appear that this is a Republican-leaning book, but it really isn’t. It’s a book for anyone who asks questions instead of blindly believing what they’re told. It’s eye-opening, and even though it’s thirteen years old, the lessons are still applicable.
I’ve written so many papers on this book, it will be difficult to keep my review concise. Basically, this incredible book sheds light on the power the media has in shaping the public’s political awareness and views. If you think the media can do no wrong, this book will shock you. If you knew the media was a little corrupt, you’ll still be shocked at the depth of power the media possesses. “The Media” isn’t really as diverse as it appears. Only a handful of individuals own all the media outlets on the planet (This book was written before folks created YouTube channels and spouted their opinions), so if one person has a view he wants espoused, potentially one-third of all media outlets will espouse his view.
Unless you’re a political science student, there’s a high likelihood you aren’t aware of the power of lobbying. This book will educate you. McChesney also discusses journalistic bias, and the problem of not only telling people what to think, but what to think about. If a news outlet decides not to cover a story at all, they are still shaping the public’s view on it.
It may appear that this is a Republican-leaning book, but it really isn’t. It’s a book for anyone who asks questions instead of blindly believing what they’re told. It’s eye-opening, and even though it’s thirteen years old, the lessons are still applicable.