For my interview, I chose Jonathan Stoll. Jon says he has strong opinions but doesn’t always share them because he wants to be a diplomat and not go too far in offending people. In an open discussion i.e., the internet, Jon is more than happy to voice them. Today the topic is Obama-hype and the media’s role behind it and society as a whole.
Q: What do you make of all the Obama hype?
A: During the election I was disgusted by the hype, because I feel like the minorities and young people voted based on his race and not his qualifications. It was very disappointing. He also got hype for his wife’s fasion. You need to base your decisions on credentials not his wife’s attire. I think it’s funny that people are viewing him as the “anti-christ.” I don’t agree with it but I find it humorous that as soon as things look a bit off they turn a little.
Q: There is an article by a Political Scientist named Stephen Skowronek who wrote an article about presidential power in elections and claims that president’s are elected largely on their political stance rather than personal qualifications. This suggests that Obama was elected solely on the fact that he was a Democrat coming in against a weak Republican regime. Would you agree?
A: Strongly. Obama was relatively unknown to the people and based on his Democrat status put him in front of McCain just because McCain was republican. His political affiliations had everything to do with it.
Q: What does this mean for American if Skowronek is right?
McCain was more experienced in every aspect, he was a senator longer and had a better representation of the people. So far Obama’s done a good job but I’m not sure how he’ll handle things getting tougher. I’m also not too comfortable in his current economic plan. I think that instead of bringing change he may have a hand in making things worse because of his relative inexperience
Q: In general media is hype is overrated?
A: Media has far too much control in today’s society. People would rather go check CNN or Fox and read what other people think rather than researching their own opinion. That’s what happened with Obama, they got carried away in the hype.. Swine flu is also a bad example because it was just causing panic and spreading irrational fear. People didn’t research it well enough
Q: Do you think people constantly need something to fear from the media?
A: The media it’s beneficial to put people in panic mode so they read more and tune in. They put things in a bad light intentionally to keep people the state of mind where they need to know more and more.
Q: Are we media obsessed? Is it unhealthy
A: Yes we’re obsessed. When it’s so easy to get information, people crave to know as much as they can. That’s why gossip is popular. Now with TV and Internet it’s boundless. I always leave my TV on CNN. It’s human nature to stay on top of the game. I wouldn’t say it’s unhealthy. I have to stay in touch for my major. Extremes of any kind are bad, though.
For More of Jon's opinions visit his blog at youbestbelieveit@blogspot.com
