You can research the history books, going back to the years before Christ was born. You don’t have to look far to learn that people have grouped into classes. This isn’t a new concept in the social structure of society. After reading this excerpt I don’t think the author, Diana Kendall is trying to state this is something new in society, but she is addressing the way it is marketed to society.
I have to agree that the media plays a large role in the way people view others. She makes a good point when she talks about how the upper class or the wealthy are glorified by the media while everybody else is ignored for the most part. I also agree with the author when she talks about the reasons the media treat the classes in this fashion.
The various corporations and business involved with the media are the same as any other business or corporation. They are in business to make money, and they will what ever they have to do to get it. After all people who have to get up every morning and do the 9 to 5 routine, really aren’t interested in watching or reading about somebody else doing the same thing. These people are much more interested in lives that seem much more glamorous. They want to see the multi million dollar homes along with the private helicopters, jets, and yachts. For many this may be an escape from the every day, and gives them some place they can go at least in their mind. At the very least it can give people a dream to follow even if that is all it ever is.
There are times when the poor, or lower class may be of some use to the media, but as the author says, it is usually when they are the victims of a disaster, or catastrophe. Once the excitement is over, and the excitement over the incident has died down, it seems these people are once again forgotten about, and the attention is once again turned toward the “rich and famous”.
In some ways I prefer it to be this way. I know I’m not considered “upper class” or “high class”, at least as far as the media goes. I fit more in to the boring “working class” group they really don’t seem to car a whole lot about. The funny thing is, most of the people working the media, fall into this same category or class. The nice thing is though, I can live my life the way I want. I don’t have a camera following me everywhere I go. I don’t have to worry about every thing I say ending up on some news tabloid, or cable show. If I want to go out with friends, I don’t have to worry about what will printed on the front pages of the entertainment or social publications. My life is mine to live, and although it isn’t one of monetary wealth, I am happy with it.
It is sad that there are those who are struggling, and the media does little to help them. It is true, it seems the only time these people are of much interest is on the reality shows, or the American Idol shows when they are placed in the spot light to see if they will be the next “rags to riches” story. It is true the media can play a large role in how we are perceived, and treated. In my opinion though, the bottom line is this. We are the only ones who truly determine our status in life. We can choose to accept the labels society gives us, and live our lives in accordance to the standards set by others, or we can take advantage of the power with in each of us to make ourselves better people. I believe that if a person wants to improve their life style, and achieve a higher standard of living, they have the power to do it. The journey may be difficult and may even seem impossible, but with determination and an honest will to better ourselves, we can make anything happen.
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