Media can influence society in various ways. While it's essential to note that not all media engage in mass manipulation, some concerns related to media influence can include:
1. Biased Reporting: Media outlets with specific political or economic interests can present information in a way that supports their agenda, potentially skewing public perception. Some local and international media are known to omit, modify or even deliver information in such a way that that twists facts. Some media outlets, most especially the small to medium enterprises, can easily seek compensation in exchange of omitting, swaying or even directing public attention from or to a certain topic. (Ex. a political candidate may “donate” a certain amount of money in exchange of bad publicity to an opponent)
2. Sensationalism: Sensational headlines or stories that can grab attention but may not always provide a balanced or accurate view of events, leading to fear or outrage. For example, media outlets are swaying the public attention to 🐣 and away from 🐯. Sensationalizing the large sum of money spent by 🐣 , when in fact 🐯 is on a spending spree, and yet the story haven’t even reached the headlines as to where and how it was spent and what are the returns for our kababayans.
3. Filter Bubbles: Social media algorithms may expose users to content that aligns with their existing beliefs, reinforcing preconceived notions and limiting exposure to diverse perspectives. Fake media outlets are rampant nowadays and can easily manipulate the people who are glued to their phones instead of opening their eyes and obeserving their way of life. Mas guminhawa ba o nasa parehas pa ding sistema?
4. Confirmation Bias: Media that consistently reinforces one viewpoint can lead to confirmation bias, where individuals seek out and accept information that supports their existing beliefs while dismissing contrary evidence. Dami tuloy naniwala sa bars.
5. Manipulative Messaging: Advertisers and political groups may use emotionally charged messaging or propaganda to manipulate public opinion. You’d be surprise how privately funded projects are grabbed for credits during election period.
6. Selective Omission: Media can selectively omit or downplay certain events or perspectives, influencing public understanding of important issues. In fact, some media outlets are resorting to historical revisionism to the point of downplaying the atrocities of the past.
While most of my examples are political in nature, media influence can also have a profound impact in different aspects of life such as gender equality, economics, health, education and many more.
It's important to engage critically with media, seek diverse sources of information, and develop media literacy skills to avoid being unduly influenced. Media literacy education and fact-checking can help individuals discern between accurate reporting and biased or misleading content. Additionally, supporting independent journalism and advocating for media transparency and accountability can contribute to a healthier media landscape.
😵💫 TLDR; Matutong mag-research ng facts dahil uso ang fake news. ⚠️Tandaan, ang fake news ay parang dr💥ga, nakakasira ng bait. ⛔️