The invention of television could perhaps be regarded as one of the greatest inventions of the 1900’s. It provided people with a source of entertainment and gave them information to what was going on locally, nationally, and globally. Television became so influential that eventually presidents began campaigning through it, and many political debates were televised. Such a phenomenon evidently became derogatory to several candidates, and the presidential elections as a whole. Such a phenomenon has tarnished the public reputation of candidates. Such a phenomenon has caused discontent among the American people regarding politics. Such a phenomenon must be altered in order to bring back the faith in the American political system. With the eyes …show more content…
The medium has opened up a new form of communication between candidates and the people. Dr. Stanton states, “Television, with its penetration, its wide geographic distribution and impact, provides a new, direct, and sensitive link between Washington and the people” (Source A). He argues that the people are now part of the nation again. This reigns true, as everyone now knows what their representatives’ policies are, and even what they look like. The people no longer feel neglected and have a direct source to go to when they want news on the elections. Televising debates also opens them up to a much broader audience, letting the people decide who they like right then and there, over having to read about it later. However, in this case the pros do not outweigh the cons.
When it comes to the future of our nation, a lot of things must be taken into consideration, particularly the people running for president. Television offers decent exposure to some of the candidates in the early stages of the campaigns, but towards election day, most of the candidates are neglected. With news stations being independent corporations, they can say what they wish about a candidate and not be reprimanded for it. With millions of viewers at home, it is easy to sway public opinion in favor of one candidate. Although television is a very influential medium, it is mostly influential in a negative