I jump from one news media to another trying to find facts rather than social media opinions, but now much of what used to be called ‘advertising’ and separated from journalism, has now blended in to keep the reader’s interest. Now instead of ‘Breaking News’ or ‘Latest Update Story’ there is ‘Martha Stewart uses…’ or ‘10 of the best (name your product or service here)’ or ‘The best deals of (name your product or service here) on Amazon, Walmart, Target, or Miller & Rhoades’ or ‘Mother’s love these (name your product or service here)’, etc. Back in the day of the newspaper, there were ‘advertorials’ that seemed like journalistic sections by reputable writers presenting information on how to replace your furnace or keep your yard all tidy or what is the latest pharmaceutical miracle drug. The articles following the accepted AP stylebook seemed like another section like ‘sports or finance’ under the umbrella of the newspaper’s reputation of ethical reporting, but for the discerning reader could find that it was merely an advertisement ‘sponsored’ or ‘promoted’ by the (name your manufacture or service provider here).
TikTok and other social media is overwhelmed with influencers trying to persuade you to part from your wallet greenery because some stranger says this (name your product or service here) can provide you with what you didn’t know you wanted but must have.
Family was the first to tell you what to do. They informed good from evil with religion and self-regulation such as experience of touching a hot stove to switches. Organized education demanded you learn certain things that could be repeated to get a piece of paper that stated you were ready to join a certain status. With a diploma in hand, employment for monetary funds proved another challenge to follow instructions to perform your task or be fired.
Today, we are bombarded by request to follow a trend or contemplate what some stranger tells us will fulfill our self-worth. If we decide not to adhere to these instructions, we may be banished from cultural norms. Follow this fashion style, listen to this popular music, read these books, watch these movies, indulge in these foods and travel to these ancient ruins to converse with the general public. Conform to the normal. Do what you are told or be ostracized by current culture.
Is it the politics or the religion?
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