EOTO #2 Reactions

Today, in my Media Law and Literacy Class, we explored various topics, including media awareness, the media sphere, key theories, and relevant policies. The discussion introduced me to several new concepts and gave me a deeper understanding of how they influence our everyday lives. A few ideas stood out to me, and I would like to reflect on them further below. 

Propaganda: 

Propaganda attempts to manipulate other people's beliefs, attitudes, and actions. Interestingly, the word 'propaganda' became common in the U.S. during the early 1910s, when World War I began. This concept is not new or modern, yet it is still used today. It is commonly employed by government, political groups, and media outlets to shape public opinion and promote specific agendas. 

Propaganda can take many forms, including posters, speeches, films, and social media posts, and it often appeals to emotion rather than logic. While it can unite people around a cause, it can also spread misinformation and suppress viewpoints, making it a powerful but dangerous tool. What is interesting about propaganda is how effectively it can sway large groups of people. It can even sway people without them even realizing they are being influenced. 

Disinfomation/ Misinformation:

Misinformation and disinformation significantly shape public perception, often with serious consequences for individuals and societies. Misinformation refers to false or inaccurate information shared without harmful intent, while disinformation is deliberately deceptive content meant to mislead people. Both can spread rapidly through social media and other platforms, reaching millions of people within minutes. The widespread circulation of false information can lead to confusion, reinforce harmful stereotypes, and erode trust. 

Addressing misinformation and disinformation is significant because of their impact on decision-making. The results can be damaging when people base their choices, such as how to vote, on falsehoods. Disinformation campaigns can polarize communities, incite violence, and influence election outcomes. Combating the issue requires critical thinking, media literacy, and responsible communication to ensure accurate, truthful information prevails in public discourse. 

Gatekeeping/ Agenda Setting:

Gatekeeping was described as controlling and limiting general access to something, which was an interesting perspective. In the media context, editors and journalists decide which newsworthy stories to publish, ultimately shaping the public's awareness. This selection process plays a crucial role in determining the flow of information and what gets the public's attention.

This concept is closely tied to agenda setting, especially within mainstream media. Agenda setting refers to the media's ability to influence what topics are important by emphasizing certain stories over others. It is fascinating to see how gatekeeping and agenda setting work hand-in-hand, highlighting how interconnected many media concepts are. 

The Media Sphere -- Mainstream Media

The Evolution of the Mainstream Media

Mainstream media has been a powerful force in shaping public opinion, culture, and political landscapes for over a century. Its evolution from print to digital has changed how information is delivered and how societies understand and engage with the world. 

The roots of mainstream media trace back to the rise of mass-circulation newspapers in the 19th century. Newspapers like The New York Times and The Times became staples for information dissemination, setting standards for journalistic integrity and public accountability. As technology advanced, radio and television emerged in the 20th century, revolutionizing real-time reporting. These platforms brought world events, wars, the civil rights movement, and moon landings into people's homes, building a shared cultural consciousness. 

The digital revolution disrupted traditional media in the 21st century. The rise of the Internet, social media, and alternative news sources challenged the dominance of established outlets. While this democratized information and gave voice to underrepresented communities, it also contributed to the spread of misinformation, polarization, and declining trust in mainstream narratives. 

Today, mainstream media faces the dual challenge of maintaining credibility while adapting to new consumption habits. Streaming news, podcasts, and mobile journalism reflect the shift in how audiences engage with content. Yet, reputable outlets still provide critical fact-checked reporting, distinguishing themselves from the noise of the information age. 

The Impacts of the Mainstream Media 

Politics and the media are closely connected. Media coverage can make or break political candidates, highlight scandals, or shift focus during significant events. Politicians often use these platforms to speak directly to the public-- or to spin a narrative in their favor. It is a power relationship. 

Agenda setting is also a prevalent concept in the media. The media does not always tell us what to think, but it does tell us what to think about. The media shapes the national conversation by focusing on certain stories over others, which can influence voters' priorities and public outrage. 

Mainstream media also connects us to the world. Covering global conflicts, natural disasters, or humanitarian crises raises awareness and sometimes drives action. However, it is worth noting that not all regions or stories get equal coverage, and there can be a bias in reporting events. 

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, mainstream media has undergone profound changes but remains a cornerstone of modern society. Its history is one of both power and responsibility. It serves the role of informing, influencing, and sometimes challenging the status quo. 

The Lens of the Diffusion Theory

 Scrolling Through Innovation 

In a world where social media is practically woven into the fabric of daily life, it might seem odd to say, "I'm not on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter." But that decision did not come from rebellion or nostalgia. It came from weighing the pros and cons of powerful innovation, something Everett Rogers would call a classic case of "Diffusion of Innovation." 

Roger's theory breaks down how new technologies spread, and how people adopt them in waves. First come the pioneers, the curious experimenters who love to try something new. Then the early adopters are respected opinion leaders who often set trends. Next is the early majority, practical and deliberate. Then the late majority is more skeptical and cautious. Finally, the laggards, who resist change and prefer traditions. 

When platforms like Facebook and Twitter launched, they offered a clear relative advantage over older ways of communication. You could share updates with everyone at once, keep up with friends, build a following, or promote your work, all from your phone. Social media was also highly compatible with modern lifestyles. The learning curve was minimal, and trying it out was easy and free. Plus, the results were immediate and visible: likes, comments, shares. 

Joining Social Media Platforms

I joined for the same reasons many did. At first, it was about staying in touch. Then, it became a tool for self-expression, community, and professional growth. Social media helps me keep up with trends, discover ideas, promote work, and connect with people. It is empowering in many ways. 

But even as an adopter, I see the downsides. The constant scrolling can be mentally exhausting. The comparison trap is real. Algorithms often prioritize outrage, drama, or shallow content. And there is the darker side, including misinformation, echo chambers, privacy concerns, and the addictive pull of endless notifications.

So, while I am on social media, I am not on it without hesitation. I have had to create boundaries, like limiting my screen time, curating my feeds, and being intentional about how I engage. It is crucial to weigh the innovation's value against its consequences, not just blindly following the crowd. 

Final Thoughts

The key to living with new technology is that you do not have to reject it entirely or embrace it uncritically. You can adopt it thoughtfully, adapt over time, and ask, "Is this still working for me?" Social media, like any innovation, is not inherently good or bad. It is a tool and, like any tool, it depends on how you use it. I am here for the connection, the ideas, and the inspiration. But I am also here with my eyes open. 

The Progressive Era

 The Antiwar Voices You Are Not Supposed to Hear

During World War I, dissenters who dared to speak out against U.S. involvement were labeled as un-American. Hundreds were jailed under the laws like the Espionage Act simply for expressing their views. That moment in history reminds us of how fragile our freedom of speech can become, especially in times of war. 

Fast forward to today, the U.S. is involved in many military operations around the world, like drones in the Middle East and military aid to Ukraine and Israel. But where are the critics? Where are the loud antiwar voices in the national conversations? 

To find them, I had to leave the mainstream media and dig into lesser-known websites like Antiwar.com and The American Conservative. These sites are filled with writing, some left-leaning and others deeply conservative, who speak out clearly against war. They question endless wars and demand accountability from our leaders. 

However, you will never hear this perspective from media sources like NBC or CNN. Why?

Dissent, especially about war, still makes people uncomfortable. Maybe it's because big media corporations depend on defense contractors for advertising dollars. Or perhaps it's because war sells, boosts ratings, stirs emotions, and fits every good vs. evil narrative. Therefore, antiwar voices are excluded despite being protected by the First Amendment. 

That's troubling. The whole point of free speech is to protect unpopular opinions, especially when they challenge power. During the World Wars, there were consequences for holding opposing opinions. Today, those opposing views are just ignored. 

Silence has consequences. There is no debate without dissent and a slow drift into more conflict. If we want to honor the First Amendment, we must protect the right to speak and be heard. That means making room for the uncomfortable questions and the inconvenient truths, as well as critics who say "no" when others say "yes." 

Antiwar voices still exist, but you must look for them; maybe this is the problem. 

Final Thoughts

If we have learned anything from history, silencing dissent, whether by force or omission, is dangerous. The First Amendment was written to protect the exact kind of speech that challenges power and authority. We must pay attention to the voices being ignored because they are also valuable. Seeking them out and hearing them is not just a personal choice but a civic responsibility. 

EOTO #1 Reaction

During my Media Law and Literacy Class this semester, the class took turns presenting about communication technology. It was interesting to hear from different perspectives on various inventions throughout history and their impact on society. During the talks, a few subjects stood out to me. The first is carrier pigeons, followed by magazines. Before this, I had never heard of carrier pigeons, so this was very informative. 

Reaction to Each One Teach One

Carrier Pigeons

Before satellites, smartphones, or even the telegraph, there were birds—not just any bird, but the carrier pigeon. These winged messengers once soared across the skies, carrying secrets, strategies, and hope. Carrier pigeons played a vital role in the history of communication. 

First used by the Greeks and Romans, pigeons were the first actual long-distance communication network. More recently, pigeons have become heroes of war. In the World Wars, these birds braved bullets, bombs, and other attack methods. One pigeon, Cher Ami, famously saved nearly 200 people during World War I. Medals were awarded, and lives were saved, all because of a bird. 

Magazines

In our digital society, paper magazines are in decline. Today, all we know are websites and digital communication. The magazine was a carefully put-together collection of thoughts, stories, and ideas. Magazines truly helped shape the way people consume information and express creativity.  

The roots of magazines stretch back to the 17th century. It was interesting to hear about what the first magazines were about. Reflecting on this, our world has definitely transformed in terms of interests. As technology started to advance, so did the magazine. By the 19th and 20th centuries, magazines were everywhere. These magazines were tailored to every interest, age, and gender. 

They ultimately captured the pulse of the society, from politics to fashion articles. This form of media gave voices to many different groups, celebrities, artists, writers, and photographers. 

Final Thoughts

From glossy prints to feathers in the air, magazines and carrier pigeons may seem worlds apart, but they both tell a story of human connection. These two subjects were so fascinating to me during the presentations. Each time, they were geniuses: magazines with their creative snapshots and ideas, and carrier pigeons with their silent strength and precision. They remind us that communication is not just about technology but also about creativity and trust. In their own fantastic way, both have left a lasting impact on the history of communication.