How Does Mass Media Affect American Politics

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Mass media is a growing business, normally controlled by giant corporations. In fact majority of national news in only covered by few sources known as “Big Media” consisting of ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Time magazine, and United Press International. (Mary 6). Because the media is so big often the corporations determine what is to be given national attention such as the presidential elections. Leaving the opinions of others to change american politics. Mass media has shaped the political system by using the method “Share This” a social media tactic, televising campaign ads or other political views, and by integrating “Live Media Debates”. “Share This” is a campaign method used by …show more content…

Basically the debate is watched time and time again and the most powerful statement is pulled out of it and put into a short five to ten second clip. After which is then flooded into the vicious world of social media. How does this affect american politics one might ask? The whole purpose of a live media debate is to make others feel like they are seeing the whole debate when in reality the truth of the debate is overshadowed and hidden. Often live media debates boost voting results by a minimum of 20%. Due to the fact that viewers watch the clip and automatically build an opinion for or against the candidate they heard from. Live media debates have had a huge impact of shaping american politics and their opinions within the last 10 years. In 2004 when Bush ran against Kerry there was hardly any social media concerning the election. Zach Cutler said “During that election, candidates didn’t speak directly to the public via social channels, and everyday people didn’t have as many outlets to share and debate their political views. Today, social media gives candidates a direct line of communication to the American people. That’s a positive change.” (Cutler 1). Mass media has shaped the political system by using the method “Share This” a social media tactic, televising campaign ads or other political views, and by integrating “Live Media

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