A
common trend throughout each of these videos is a variety of different media
concepts and theories. The different sectors of news reporters presented the
issue of birthers in different ways, depending on their opinions and biases on
this subject. We observed examples of instances where the news media were
framing and gatekeeping information, and even at times showing signs of agenda
setting in their news reports.
Fox News showed many
inconsistencies, ranging from telling the entire truth to a representation
clearly altered by the bias of newscasters, guests, and the network. The role
of Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert was to use satire and comedy to both
entertain their audience, while at the same time unveiling wrong doings of the
media and commending their ethically correct actions.
As consumers of media, we have
learned the importance of checking our facts, of digging for the truth rather
than accepting what the media offers at face value. We encourage others to do
the same and discover the difference between the truth and what is reported.
Believe it or believe it.
