There is no question that all media has a bias. Everybody does. From social media to national news media, everybody has an opinion and thank heavens they are allowed to. Nothing is more American than defending opinions, whether currently popular or not.
Francois-Marie Arouet, Voltaire to the world, is famous for the statement, “I wholly disapprove of what you say but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” Not really the mood in our woefully divided country at this point. I have no argument with opinions stated as opinions but I rebel at opinions posing as truth.
I listen to everyone regarding the Corona virus but I try to categorize what I hear. I listen to politicians to find out what they think should be done politically. I listen to medical professionals to find out what they think about the best ways we can be safe during this health crisis. I look at statistics to help me decide who to trust.
Did you notice that I did not use the word “feel” in any of the above statements. Of course, when I hear someone interviewed who has suffered a loss or who is frightened or angry, I am moved and I feel their loss. When the press interviews someone in crisis, it is good for ratings but is not always a true indication of the state of things.
Squeeky Wheelism is not a “real” term but I am happy to draft it into use during these trying times. We are more moved by the “squeaky wheels” than by the facts. Social media is replete with squeaky wheels. Unfortunately, unless we move back from our emotional response to look at the facts, we are prone toward hoarding, panic and mob mentality. My son, Case, messaged me this morning that people have always been ruled more or less by their emotions. He is correct but I have faith that people, all people, have within them the ability to step above their gut reaction.
I have a few suggestions:
1. Look to the motive behind the speaker/writer, both those with whom you agree and those with whom you don’t. What does the person/organization have to gain from taking a certain position?
2. Temper your reaction. Things will not be as desperate as the worst case nor as easy as the most hopeful. Try to average the two.
3. Try to look at the whole picture. The virus scenario is multi-faceted. Keeping people inside and minimizing contact can slow the virus growth and save lives. Keeping people inside and minimizing contact can mean financial ruin for many families who rely on a weekly paycheck to put food on the table. Both sides are right and are looking for the best way they can come through this difficult time.
4. None of us know the answers to all the questions no matter how smart we think we are. The minute you think your position is the only one is the minute you are absolutely wrong. There will be loss and gain with any answer. Anyone who claims to have all the answers is selling something.
Use your brain to decide and your heart to care.
Be safe, Love one another, Use that brain that the creator (or millions of years of evolution) has given you.
Mike
Artwork by Robert Case Hill
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