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July 1994

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Sender:
Film and TV Studies Discussion List <[log in to unmask]>
Subject:
From:
Allan Siegel <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Mon, 11 Jul 1994 08:29:00 CDT
Reply-To:
Film and TV Studies Discussion List <[log in to unmask]>
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By shaping the Simpson case as an <event> the networks
effectively decontextualize the broader social issues in the case. It changes
 into
a <contest> between two opposing camps; a battle of <clever>
strategies with all the subtle nuances of the legal system in full
display on national television. But is the reporting journalism?
Or, what kind of journalism is the reporting? The tyranny
of dis/information created by <facts> and <expert commentary>
only furthers popular mythology; creates an illusion of an <informed> citizenry.
 Another new paint job on the facade of democracy.
 
Daily experiences tell us that this is a misogynist society. <It
doesnUt take a lot of brain power by the folks at media central to
figure this out>. This misogyny exists not only in the ideological realm, but in
 the political as well; and, it effects all social relations: not just those
 between men and women. The <foregrounding> of the legal aspects of the
Simpson case transforms an event with clear social implications into yet another
 sports event: into a de politicized spectacle.
 
The journals of mass opinion, TV, radio, and print, perpetuate
an astounding level of social ignorance and fear and insecurity.
The majority of the resources of network television are directed
not towards better research and greater depth in reporting but
rather towards sensationalized <news> tidbits and glitzy
packaging and sports events. How truly sad that a program like *60
minutes* has come to represent the pinnacle of television
investigative journalism. Thanks folks Allan

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