Local Issue #1 - Mother, teen son indicted in killing

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2008/04/01/mother_teen_son_indicted_in_killing/

It is apparent in the media today what the American public wants to read.  Newspapers and other forms of media cover, publish, and present what sells.  Arguably, there is reason to be concerned since Hollywood love stories have become a staple of the evening news, following the world news and weather.  More so, I take issue with the rarity that we ever see anything positive in the news.  If it isn’t another incidence of violence, a Hollywood break-up, or another terrorist suicide bombing, it doesn’t seem worth the space.  I am not trying to say that we should not be informed of the tragedies which are realities of our world situation.  However, I do think it would do everyone good to recognize the positive things that occur in our world.  From the new after school program for inner city kids, to aid delivered to a needy area – I am not advocating for a rosy view of the world, only a more complete one. 

            The concept of “if it bleeds, it leads,” is almost exclusively relevant to our media culture today.  Clearly, this is a principle in reference to our interest in conflict, violence, and negative things.  Our front pages have to be laced with blood or marriages for the papers and news stations to stay in business.  The article found at the link is an example of this trend.  Yes, an accidental homicide is obviously a tragedy; however, I do believe it is unfair to only ever see articles about DSS’s failings.  We only hear when they mess up, not when they successfully place hundreds of children, or remove a child from a dangerous situation.  However, there rarely is space in the newspaper for a triumph story.  This psychological principle helps us understand our media and why they make the choices they do – which is important for a reader to be objective and read the news in context.