I believe that satirical news reporting is in most ways, a mainstream form of culture jamming. I have reason to feel this way because these shows are not to be a spoof and provide parodies of today’s news and advertisements etc. for society to enjoy. As much as these shows are funny and enjoyed, some may argue that they are not politically correct. That it is unnecessary and harmful. While reading the text it was stated “The term ‘jamming’ can refer to an obstruction” (213). What that means is that these simple jokes, may have a deeper meaning and can sometimes cause upset throughout the public. In chapter 14 it was also stated “There can be serious legal implications” (224). When forms of media, like The Daily Show and Rick Mercer Report gain the control to destroy and make a mockery of different advertisements or factual news, there is always the risk of crossing certain lines. There have been cases of these spoofs coming across as racist, sexist, etc. However I feel that when done respectfully, society can find these shows as a comic relief to their everyday normal, boring and in some cases almost miserable news reports. We often hear of horrible accidents on the news, deaths, crimes, hurricanes etc. with that being said we are led to the idea that these parodies are much needed. I personally watch the news and usually feel depressed or saddened by what I have witnessed, although these are the facts that I need to be exposed to. It is important that society knows the truth about what is going on in our world. That does not mean we are not allowed to also enjoy some comedy.
After reading and learning about culture jamming, I have developed a personal opinion on the matter. I do feel that when done respectfully it can be a useful addition to the public sphere. If the public is able to look past the completely false information and just laugh about it, then it is a good form of media. To answer the title of this blog, I do not believe the fake news, is the real news but I do think it important to have and be apart of.
O’Shaughnessy, Michael, and Jane Stadler. Media And Society. 5th ed. South Melbourne: Oxford University Press, 2012. 52-56. Print.
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