Media: Monetizing Anger
The current period could be dubbed The Age of Anger. To drive ratings up and along with them, ad revenue there’s nothing like rage. People go to their favorite media outlet as if it were comfort food. Where their views are validated and reinforced. And their anger finds a home. Argu-tainment is the order of the day and boy does it pay off. Corporate profits soar. Witness the comments of Leslie Moonves, former head of CBS, who cynically said, Donald Trump and his campaign “may not be good for America but it’s damn good for CBS. Man, who would have expected the ride we’re all having now? The money’s rolling in. I’ve never seen anything like this. Bring it on, Donald.”
Speaker
Matt Taibbi
Matt Taibbi is an award-winning journalist and a contributing editor for Rolling Stone. He is the author of Griftopia and Hate, Inc.
David in Kingston, NY –
Great to hear Matt Taibbi on the genesis of contemporary media. What a lucid voice!
Jane Glushik –
Thank you Matt Taibbi! We can only hope that your analysis and perspective indicate a burgeoning self-awareness in the American psyche.
Mara in NM –
My husband and I particularly enjoyed hearing Matt Taibbi this weekend—lots of food for thought and concern. We love AR and the service you provide.
David in Kingston, NY –
Great to hear Matt Taibbi on the genesis of contemporary media. What a lucid voice!
JR Hanson –
I appreciated the historical perspective. Taibbi brought together observations in a compelling way.
Anitra Brown –
I wish this were required listening. Excellent!
Maura Quady –
Refreshingly objective, very informative. We can be more discerning about what we allow into our brains, just as we do choosing healthy versus junk food.