Patton Oswalt: People Notice ‘The News Business,’ Not ‘The News
Actor and comedian Patton Oswalt exposes the truth about “the news business”
During a recent appearance on ABC’s “The View,” Patton Oswalt boldly revealed what most people fail to realize – that what they consume on a daily basis is not truly “the news,” but rather “the news business.” Oswalt shed light on the fact that the sensationalism and heightened drama we witness in the media is not aimed at informing the public, but rather at attracting viewers.
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Patton Oswalt admits that “you are being exposed to the news business rather than the news” and we’re not as close to ”the brink” as the media would have us believe:
“We have been way closer to the brink than we are now.” pic.twitter.com/Ibl50w7OyF— Nicholas Fondacaro (@NickFondacaro) March 12, 2024
Oswalt, who is currently promoting his new show “Manhunt,” which delves into the aftermath of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination and the search for his killer, joined the hosts of “The View” to discuss the series. He reassured viewers by stating, “We have been way closer to the brink than we are now.” He emphasized that the portrayal of current events in the news is often skewed due to the influence of the news business.
Agreeing with Oswalt’s assessment, several cohosts chimed in before he continued, “The business is about getting eyes on that screen. So they do have to make it seem like ‘there’s no way back from this.'” Oswalt further emphasized that throughout history, we have faced dire situations with far less technology and knowledge than we possess today, yet we managed to overcome them.
Interrupting Oswalt, cohost Joy Behar suggested that technology may be contributing to the problem. Oswalt responded by explaining that technology itself is neutral, and it is the intentions and actions of those who wield it that determine whether it is used for good or bad. He compared technology to an ax, which can be used to build or harm depending on the person wielding it.
How are media corporations commercializing and manipulating news?
Alt’s remarks shed light on the commercialization and manipulation of news by media corporations, highlighting the imperative for individuals to critically analyze the information they receive.
In an era where news plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion, Oswalt’s insights serve as a wake-up call for society. With his characteristic wit and candor, the actor and comedian outlined the underlying mechanisms of the news industry, urging viewers to question their sources and challenge the narratives presented to them.
Oswalt emphasized that news corporations are ultimately profit-driven entities, driven by the need for high ratings and increased advertising revenue. This pursuit of profit often leads to sensationalism and the prioritization of entertainment value over factual accuracy. As a result, news stories are frequently exaggerated, distorted, or sensationalized, prompting individuals to consume narratives that may not reflect reality accurately.
The actor’s remarks also touched on the role of social media in perpetuating the distortion of news. Oswalt highlighted how the rise of instant dissemination platforms has further exacerbated the manipulation of information. Social media algorithms cater to individual preferences and biases, creating personalized news feeds that reinforce pre-existing beliefs. Consequently, individuals may become trapped within echo chambers, reinforcing and reaffirming their own viewpoints without critical analysis.
Oswalt’s observations are particularly relevant at a time when fake news and disinformation proliferate at an alarming rate. The consequences of blindly accepting and spreading misinformation can be detrimental to society. Misinterpreted facts and manipulated narratives can foster societal division, an erosion of trust in journalism, and the normalization of falsehoods.
Based on Oswalt’s remarks, it becomes clear that each individual bears the responsibility to actively engage in media literacy. To combat the influence of the “news business,” a critical approach to news consumption is essential. This involves cross-referencing multiple sources, fact-checking claims, and seeking out diverse perspectives.
Moreover, Oswalt’s insights also underscore the importance of supporting independent journalism and responsible media outlets. News organizations that prioritize journalistic principles, fact-checking, and ethical reporting offer a counterbalance to the sensationalism and manipulation prevalent in mainstream media.
Ultimately, Oswalt’s brave exposé on “the news business” challenges individuals to question the sources they rely on daily. This call to action serves as a crucial reminder to approach news consumption with skepticism and discernment. By doing so, individuals can contribute to a more informed, responsible, and empowered society.
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