As we discussed in class. The internet has become a very big factor in the new age of politics. The last election in 2008 was covered all over the world and the internet was a deciding factor in in as there were all kinds of advertisements on social media sites such as youtube and facebook. Now with twitter becoming as popular as it has over the last few years. I expect the next election to be even more involved in the internet. The ability to reach the masses of media and people through the internet is a key thing with voting and gaining a following. I mostly spend a lot of time on the computer rarely reading newspapers or magazines, but I look to the internet for all of my news. So if a presidential candidate can reach potential voters through the internet as well as still go the traditional route of campaigning the streets and different cities I see it as a huge advantage.
Also though, the growth of popular culture has effected how we see and view all figures in politics. It seems as if we can't view people as actual humans anymore but expect these politicians to be somewhat of perfect creatures. When in reality they are far from that. If people would pay more attention to the actual issues that each candidate brings to the table I think that it would help add some more credibility to politics. But for now the culture of America certainly dictates and plays a part in how all people look at politics and politicians.
I agree with everything you've been saying on this topic, and here's my two cents to piggyback off what you said of perception of politicians.
ReplyDeleteThat is one of the most frustrating part of politics - not the issues, but the coverage. The excessive, over-analytic coverage of everything. It requires politicians to have the image, celebrity status, attempt to be perfect - spinning your words, monitoring their actions, body language, habits, interests, tone of voice. As a politician, they are always in the public eye; it is all recorded and available for scrutiny by the public,
and especially by powerful voices like satiric comedians or even amateur's parody videos on YouTube. Anyone can change your reputation or perception.
So, you'll forever be walking on eggshells. And now, more than ever before, they need more consultants to help market you to the people. After a certain point, what expertise do you have - being in the public eye or actually having strong knowledge in your area of expertise? Or are you the puppet for multiple others? How quickly does a public figure lose focus on finding the best solutions or paths to the important issues?