Assigned Entry #5- The Power of Media



Advertisement for car

      Media has power, but that power is balanced by the power of consumers. Media, whether it be advertising or even a newscast, is competing for your time, business, money, etc. They are trying to increase their business. That is their job and responsibility. They will make their product look as good as they possibly can, sometimes even past the point of credibility. 

Advertisement for food

  
     It is our responsibility as consumers to be informed and not swayed by unrealistic claims or images. This can be difficult because companies hire the best people to make their products look good. 

If a company crosses the line of truth, informed consumers will punish that company by taking their business elsewhere.     

            



Reporter for newscast

      Despite the simple logic that I have just explained, it can be difficult to not be swayed or influenced by images. We as humans, tend to be very visually impacted. Images are often times  carefully and painstakingly created to produce a reaction with consumers. For example it is not a coincidence that most people who work in front of a camera for a living are considered to be attractive. Even in a newscast where physical appearance has nothing to do with creditibility, the reporters are usually better than average looking.  
       



Advertisement improperly done, leaving a phantom hand on the model



    Since we have been talking about media recently in class, I have found myself taking a moment to analyze media when I see it. I notice the effort put into keeping my attention. The people, the editing, even the lighting. It all adds up to a powerful combination. But that powerful combination will be overcome by proper analysis and a healthy dose of skeptic. In the free market society we live in, it is worth it to be an informed consumer. We have a limited amount of money. Do your research before buying a product or service, and don't allow someone to take more of your time than absolutely necessary.