Weekly Analysis 5

Since this week was about formulas I thought it fitting to talk about the formula used by the media. What I mean is, how they attract people into watching all these bad or potentially negative things. I'm not saying that we shouldn't be informed about what is going on in the world, because we should and as citizens of this country it is our right.

Have you noticed how in the last 6-8 months how much the news has changed and captivated us all at the same time? I mean every now and then they might have a good story or information but lately it's been a swarm of negativity.

It starts with the election, of course all the bad publicity comes out about the cadidates along with their good traits. Not only does info about the candidates come forward but how they are planning to "change" the country as well. When that fizzled out, all the buzz is about the economy and the state of the country. The Corporate bailouts, potential tax cuts, wall street. Then just as Obama's 100 days have passed, the Swine Flu occurs! "MEXICO CITY – The swine flu epidemic spread deeper into the United States, Europe and Latin America — and in Canada, back to pigs" (Anderson, Associated Press). I am not saying this isn't a serious matter and we shouldn't be informed but it would be nice to hear something good.

The formula is to keep the American people completely engaged in the news and it's working...a woman told me the other day she never used to watch the news but now she cannot turn it off! They want to keep them tuned in until they lose interest and then something else seems so important to tell us.

The only good thing I've heard on the news was about the British woman with the amazing voice! This is a good thing...it's always great to hear about someone with an amazing talent. I'd just like to hear more good things.

Anderson, J. (2009). New swine flu cases in Europe, US, Latin America. Associated Press. Retrieved May 3, 2009 from Yahoo News.