Media Literacy/Bias

When an individual understands the concept behind media literacy they will quickly learn also about media bias. With each broadcast medium using different strategies and spins to reach its viewer, the general public must focus strictly on the issue being discussed instead of the particular angle given by the media. If we allow ourselves to be sucked in to their pojnt of view, then of course we will buy it. If we simply use the media as a source of whats going on in the world and develop our own opinions about it we can overcome their bias.
While it is true that certain stations adapt particular formats and styles that only report one type of news or condescending viewpoints, it is not until we realize this is the way it is and it is going to change that we can form our own opinions. I think that media bias is unavoidable. It can not be changed. The bias we experience in media is the same bias we experience in other aspects of our life. For example if I am told a story by a couple of friends about a date that they went on, I would hear two sides of the story no matter how the date went. The girl would tell me what she wore, what he was wearing, where they went, and her current feelings about the guy now. The guy would tell me he had fun and he may see her again. I received two totally different views about the same date. This is just the way people are. Different people have different views and if they have the opportunity they are going to discuss them. The way media spins stories may often have to do with governmental influence or money, but this too is a part of this nation. Media is a big industry and will be influienced for the rest of time. The key to escaping these bias is by playing the same game. Hear the story, know the facts, and form your OWN opinion. If you understand that there is a bias and are informed about what it means to be media literate, this isn't such a hard task to accomplish.