Political Thoughts
Students in ITL 361 are working on their political poster assignments. For some its a challenge to become engaged in a topic; for others, it’s a challenge to think through the process of communicating visually. For all, its a chance to face discourse that it frequently contentious and try to find a way to talk about the issues without descending into invective and platitudes.
As I consider on the nature of political discourse in this country - and especially the polarizing process of the last decade or so - I often reflect on the role that media has played in shaping that discourse. I’m appalled by folks like Rush Limbaugh and Bill O’reilly, and concerned that FoxNews enjoys the viewership that it seems to possess given its extreme bias in programming. But before you label me as a liberal extremist, let me say that I’m also concerned some of the writing in the New York Times.
But at least with the Times, I can get access to David Brooks. He’s an example of a thoughtful conservative. I may find myself frequently drawn to his writing even if I disagree ideologically. At least I can see his point of view. One recent article of his actually relates to my earlier topic above: the power of the mediated voice of Conservatism. The perceived power is a result of the medium; and I need to relax when I get frustrated by idiots like Limbaugh or O’reilly. They don’t have any real power. The great fallacy is to believe that they do. That’s a failure that draw conservatives and liberals together!
Next entry: Conservative Columnist
Previous entry: New Mac Products