Negative news, fear and the main stream media

Main stream media has a huge responsibility. A responsibility that is not formalized like it is in governmental power structures, and therefore the responsibility and requirements for self-justice is actually greater. So it is sad to see that some journalists think that they are critical if only they manage to focus as negatively as possible on an issue. And the saddest thing is that it almost never are those with power and influence that are in the spotlight when they have been naughty... Even though here in Norway we are far from 'American standards' when it comes to press ethics (I hope), it's not like we have a free press, at least not in the sense that rich and poor guys get the same treatment.

About negative news: It is of course possible to be critical without being negative. But the fact is that main stream media is full of negative news that has little or no bearing on our lives, that does not provide objective information which might be of use to make an informed opinion on an issue and that we have no possibility to do anything with anyway. Negative news, perhaps particularly in the areas of terrorism, crime and disease, does nothing but generate fear, and the consequences for society and individuals are immense. But fear is a very useful tool for those who wish to manipulate the masses, shown blatantly in the (so far) last American oil-war. Media, even here in 'innocent' little Norway, runs the risk of being useful idiots for groups with their own agendas, agendas which they do not intend to share with the masses.

On a personal level it is a fact that what you focus on has a tendency to occur more frequently. If you worry too much about diseases, there is a signinficantly increased probability that you will get ill compared to someone with a more normal attitude towards health. And the same is actually the case for crime. And, surprise, surprise, I've heard that terrorist-paranoid USA experiences a lot more terrorism against Americans than before 9/11.

So what are positive news? Well, there's actually plenty, but they're not so easy to find. For some reason positive news don't sell as well as the latest gossip about Paris Hilton or the latest transfer of some sports-millionaire who nobody will remember in five years. It could be fun to elaborate on the socio-psychological reasons for this, but, well, perhaps some other time.

So, yes, main stream media carries a huge responsibility. I wonder whether they are really conscious about it. Because if they really are, we are all in big trouble...