Television: Religion & Politics Perplexing Society

It is obvious that political views are pressed upon viewers by what is presented on television and in the news. Consumers have grown dependent on television for entertainment as well as news updates. How much do religious and political intellectuals actually influence these forms of media? Although there are several shows that encourage high moral and personal standards, television has become so full violence, sex, and immoral activities that it is hard to believe there is any religious authority behind the scenes. If that is the case, then perhaps religious intellectuals are needed to aid in more honest, wholesome, and uplifting programming. This will contribute to a decrease in negative effects that violent & sexually explicit programs have on young viewers. Society is a reflection of what we broadcast and therefore viewers should be more aware of what they are accepting from television and news networks.

Current primetime shows that promote sexual promiscuity include Gossip Girl, Greek, Desperate Housewives, and Dirty Sexy Money. Such programming targets a young demographic, encouraging sexual explicitness in an entertaining fashion. The standards presented range from pre-marital sex to cheating on one’s partner. Television makes these issues appear dangerous and exciting. However, I do not agree that it is sophisticated for networks to condone such behavior and communicate a sense of acceptance to society. This raises the question of who is behind programming and what message are they trying to send? The only political agenda that could be interpreted from such immoral shows is a clearly liberal one with no limits or restrictions. Perhaps, the influence of religious intellectuals can shift the direction of where television is headed.

Creators such as Dick Wolf and Tim King are responsible for the creation of religiously controversial shows such as Law & Order and Crossing Jordan, respectively. Then there are creators with religious backgrounds such as David E. Kelly, known Catholic who is behind the creation of Chicago Hope and Boston Public. Such shows delineate moral dilemmas and the various ways to overcome such obstacles. Furthermore, Barbara Hall, a Catholic turned Methodist is responsible for the popular Joan of Arcadia and Judging Amy.

In congruence, television shows are also formatted to suggest specific political views and agendas. Shows that predominantly do so are news media networks such as FOX. A prime example of how politics affect society through television media is the coverage of political campaigning. During these phases, networks and local stations dedicate the majority of their time to covering political candidates. News coverage has become so enticing to viewers that it is possible to argue that television coverage of politics often inhibits and brings down the reputation of political parties due to the networks desire for power. It is becoming increasingly difficult for candidates to clearly get their messages across to the public. Instead of Democrats or Republicans communicating their platforms and values to viewers, FOX, NBC, and ABC are handling all communication through their stations and what they choose to broadcast.