Sociologists often contend that the media is a major influence on how individuals form opinions, behaviors, and beliefs. Not so recently, the media institution has merged with the political institution to influence voters opinions and political affiliation. Because of this merge, social scientists call the media the fourth estate in politics. The idea is that the media operates as an informal branch of government by swaying public opinion and voting behaviors. Examples of the fourth estate include attack ads during campaigns, political pundits on networks like FOX and MSNBC, and political bloggers.
Even more recently, there has been an emerging trend of satirical news shows that aim to put a comedic spin on the news. Examples include: The Daily Show, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee, and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. While these shows have served a function of presenting alternative views to news, sometimes it is tricky to distinguish between the real and and unreal; or as postmodern theorist Jean Baudrillard argued: “the image has come to replace the real” (1981/1994). These shows look and feel just like a segment on Fox, MSNBC, or CNN. And while the goal is to put a comedic slant on stories, they also serve the function of reporting on current events and disseminate information.
In this discussion board, you will be analyzing the potential impact of this element of the fourth estate.
Instructions:
First, find one or two clips on YouTube that feature comedic slants on political news. If you are having trouble, I recommend searching segments from Saturday Night Live and the Democratic Primary, John Oliver or Samantha Bee on the pandemic, or any of these (and other) shows about the politics of coronavirus relief packages in the United States (note: if you are having further trouble, I can help with some examples as well. Just email me).
Then, you will be required to make an initial post of 350-400 words, and two reply posts of 100-150 words to other students. [Note: you must make an initial post before you can see what others have posted.]
After you have watched the clips and made notes on what issues are being discussed and what sort of strategies were used to recap to the political issue, craft a three paragraph response with the following components:
In your first paragraph, synthesize the videos by first summing up the issue and then noting any common themes of how a political issue was covered. Themes could include satire, use of comedy, how bodies were positioned, use of other media, etc.
Consider how popular these shows are. Theorize about the impact these sources might have on Americans political attitudes. Are these effective sources for Americans to derive some knowledge of politics?
Finally, discuss whether or not these clips are examples of the fourth estate and whether or not journalism plays a role in shaping American politics. Be sure to draw on research on the impact of media on public opinion from your textbook.
Note: be sure to include a link to the video you wrote about in your post.
What Students Are Saying About Us
.......... Customer ID: 12*** | Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"Honestly, I was afraid to send my paper to you, but you proved you are a trustworthy service. My essay was done in less than a day, and I received a brilliant piece. I didn’t even believe it was my essay at first 🙂 Great job, thank you!"
.......... Customer ID: 11***| Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This company is the best there is. They saved me so many times, I cannot even keep count. Now I recommend it to all my friends, and none of them have complained about it. The writers here are excellent."
"Order a custom Paper on Similar Assignment at essayfount.com! No Plagiarism! Enjoy 20% Discount!"
