|
|
A Report On The Media Coverage Of Our World
Publisher: Connections, c/o Edmonton Learner CentreYear Published: 1981 Pages: 16pp Resource Type: Article Cx Number: CX2383 In May, 1981, the Edmonton Learner Centre (ELC) sponsored a two-day conference entitled "The International News Blues, a Conference on Media Coverage of our World." Abstract: In May, 1981, the Edmonton Learner Centre (ELC) sponsored a two-day conference entitled "The International News Blues, a Conference on Media Coverage of our World." The August, 1981 issue of ELC's monthly newsletter, Connections, reports on this conference. Six articles highlight the ways in which the media creates and shapes local and international opinion. Luis Aravena discusses mechanisms through which the mass media presents a biased, distorted view of the world. Omission of information about certain world events and a lack of background information make it difficult for the reader to form rational and logical explanations for conflicts. This contributes to mass acceptance of simplistic and naïve explanations (such as 'Cuban-Soviet subversion'). The manipulation of language, a common tool of distortion is used to frighten the population of western countries and shape opinion. (For example, however vicious they may be, armies are always labelled 'security forces,' while those in opposition are called 'terrorists.'). Aravena also examines how the 'symbiotic' relationship between newsmen and business leaders contributes to news distortion. Jaques Marchand further discusses factors affecting the media. Because multinational corporations are the prevailing institutions, the corporate point of view inevitably becomes "the lens to see the world." Short bulletins replace in-depth examination of issues as newspapers compete with electronic media. Economic concentration results in fewer points of view being expressed. Marchand states that alternative publications need to be more effectively published and marketed for wider influence. Included in this issue is a list, with addresses and subscription rates, of seventeen publications devoted to alternative information-sharing. All are available from the Edmonton Learner Centre. $4 single copy; $10 per year. Subject Headings |