Add to favorites Examiner Bio

Intellectually autonomous?

One of peoples’ moral functions is their ability to distinguish between right and wrong. This ability gives them the ability to see things in a clear light in order to be able to understand and identity an ethical from an unethical act. This is what distinguishes human beings from non humans in that they are driven by the ability to reason in a rational and logical way given the advanced cognitive abilities that they possess. The biological basis behind rationality and reasoning is proven through the brain’s functions when processing information.

 

In most peoples’ care-free days of gullibility and innocent quest for knowledge about the world, newspapers were the ultimate source; and there was no question about the credibility of the information. The splashy colors and catchy phrases made the experience worthwhile. Little did the consumer know about the ignorance that still prevails and sustains itself even while following a seemingly intellectually enriching experience. Facts it seems, are dressed up in heavy and protective clothing that would generate within us a feeling of fear that would prevent us from seeing what’s beneath the many guises that are there. Facts are not facts anymore. Polls have simply become meaningless digits. Scientific findings are not discoveries. The truth, it seems, has become a useless instrument that does not generate any excitement or fear in today’s highly animated world. This only leaves us with the option of having to see way beyond the protective clothing. Our minds are being played with and perhaps even programmed. World events are either ornamented with bright candle lights that obscure our vision; or they are tainted so badly and misrepresented by the debris of “facts” that make it harder to see what’s beyond. Again, our minds, it seems, are being manipulated.

 

This is why, it is important to encourage the reader to become an avid and cautious media consumer. When it comes to foreign policy, the rule is the same. We must carefully follow the news and seek various alternatives in order not to be tied by to a certain outlet’s agenda.

 

We may very well boast about the many different channels and media outlets that we have in the United States. The truth of the matter is however, we’re missing out a lot on what is going on to in the world. Certain thoughts are instilled within our minds. A person or group of people who may very well be our friend are sometimes demonized and presented in a false light.

The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at the University of Arizona found that nearly 67% of Americans do not trust the media for accurate reporting. More importantly, context in the media plays an important role and affects the way in which people process the information being presented to them. According to Professor Robert Jensen of the University of Texas, context is the only thing that matters when reporting news. This is referring to the nearly 50 year conflict between Palestinians and Israelis.

 

We must continue expanding our horizons while refining ourselves with the knowledge necessary in order for us to adopt solid views and beliefs. This is especially true when it comes to world news. Unfortunately, we are seeing half the picture and the real picture will not be complete until we armor ourselves with the power of real knowledge. In this case, digging out and seeking various sources is the answer. As John Adams put it, “Liberty cannot be preserved without a general knowledge among the people.”-