Week 10, Post 3: Media Malady Effect

Media malady effect on page 367 in Chapter 28 is "negative economic headlines and stories that depress consumer sentiment and leading economic indicators". This effect seems to be occurring right now. There are so many negative headlines about our economy lately that it has hurt our trust in it. Seeing scary headlines about the crashing stock market and housing market has truly affected our feelings about the economy. In positive times, we seem more willing to buy. Right now, we are so concerned about the future and present situation that we are tightly holding on to whatever money we have. Because media organizations have the power to change our thinking, perhaps more positive stories would help boost the faith of consumers. I'm not sure what positive stories are our there, but if the media has such an effect, then it's worth a shot. The example of air safety and it's effect on the public is a good example. After 9/11, the number of people flying dropped significantly and stayed that way for a while. The negative images on the tv did not help the situation. The images of planes crashing into buildings stayed in a lot of people's minds. You would think that the media would use their power to make more people feel happier. Instead of constantly showing negative stories, the media should show ones that inspire and drive consumerism. Most of the news on tv now is depressing and it only makes you think of how horrible the world is. Perhaps a "feel good" approach to the news would change things.