Much is being made about the impact of “Saturday Night Live” on the presidential election. For the latest New York Times story,
click here
According to the argument, the way “SNL” characterize the candidates is the way the public will perceive them from that point on. Think of the robotic Al Gore, the “strategery” of George W. Bush, the bumbling Gerald Ford and, now, the media-loved Barack Obama.
The implication: A group of humorists can sway an election with a few comedy sketches.
Weigh in on that … or consider a bigger question: If our voting can be influenced by “SNL,” doesn’t it follow that other aspects of our behavior are influenced by what we see on TV? If we believe that voters will be affected by what “SNL” presents, doesn’t that imply that violence and sexuality on TV or in video games have an effect on our actions?
Your thoughts?
According to the argument, the way “SNL” characterize the candidates is the way the public will perceive them from that point on. Think of the robotic Al Gore, the “strategery” of George W. Bush, the bumbling Gerald Ford and, now, the media-loved Barack Obama.
The implication: A group of humorists can sway an election with a few comedy sketches.
Weigh in on that … or consider a bigger question: If our voting can be influenced by “SNL,” doesn’t it follow that other aspects of our behavior are influenced by what we see on TV? If we believe that voters will be affected by what “SNL” presents, doesn’t that imply that violence and sexuality on TV or in video games have an effect on our actions?
Your thoughts?
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Yes, I do think the media has been less tough on Obama than Hillary. I would also say that is due to her front-runner status, which she enjoyed as a former first lady. She later became senator, but again, I believe her name helped her get there. It doesn't mean she's not a good senator or can not do a good job. I don't know seriously the media took Obama's candidacy (as a serious contender). How much media scrutiny did Mike Huckabee get? Romney and McCain have been vetted in the campaign because they had both been front-runners.
It IS amazing how much the media does form our perceptions of people. It has been hotly debated regarding coverage of crimes on our local news, for years. For those that spew the cliche that art imitates life, art also distorts and underlines prejudices. Through the '80's there were accurate protests and complaints about the media's portrayal of minorities on TV (dramas, sitcoms, etc.). That has changed over the last 20 years... finally. The media is very powerful... whether intentionally or not.
Are they bringing balance? I don't know. I can only observe that they are being more critical of Obama. Does that mean it's balanced or does that just mean they are being critical? Some of it will be unfair and inappropriate. Where do you draw the line? What's balanced? When your candidate is being criticized, then it is unfair. When it is the other candidate, then it is being balanced. Ironically, we say the same thing about media coverage of sports teams. Many swore the national broadcasts of Pacers vs. Knicks playoff games was biased towards the Knicks because of the announcer saying YES when the Knicks made a play. Does politics imitate sports?!! I think we all want to like our candidate/team and we don't like it when others disagree with us. Even uncommitted voters (or impartial sports fans) are in fact partial. They become decided when something confirms their hidden beliefs. THAT is the concern both campaigns must feel. If you're on the Obama side, you don't want race to be a negative factor in the campaign. If you're on the Clinton side, you don't want past Clinton indescretions and her (rhymes with itchy) perception to be a factor.
I think SNL is just entertainment but people are clearly influenced by what they see. It might not make them into serial killers but it will and does set new paradigms for what is accessible. It is not news that a politician receives favorable treatment when they appear on a program. Plus she is a NY'er.
I think the article is clear in showing the connection between the skit and recent results and trends. Good for her. At least the skit did not insult my intelligence.