Is ‘The View’ Hosts Qualified to Comment on the Issues They Discuss?
The View has long been a staple of morning TV, featuring a panel of intelligent women discussing a range of topics and providing commentary on current events. However, many viewers wonder if the hosts truly possess the expertise required to contribute meaningfully to these discussions. This article delves into the qualifications of The View's hosts and explores whether their commentary holds genuine value or is merely for entertainment.
The Nature of Entertainment vs. Expertise
At its core, The View is designed as a platform for female hosts to share their opinions and experiences on a variety of topics. While these women have diverse backgrounds in entertainment, race, politics, and journalism, they are not typically hired for their expertise in the subjects they discuss. Instead, their roles are more aligned with entertainers who bring their personal perspectives and social media savvy to the conversation.
On a show like The View, hosts often watch the same news as their audience and express questions and opinions much like their viewers would. The key draw lies in the accessibility and relatability of these women—many of whom are familiar faces from both entertainment and politics. They offer a candid and engaging perspective, drawing in audiences who find it entertaining to see their favorite personalities discuss current events.
Value in Entertainment and Diversity
While The View may not always delve into deep, technical analyses of issues, it does provide a valuable service by bringing a diverse range of opinions to the table. The guests on The View are often experts in their respective fields, allowing for a more well-rounded discussion. The show can be seen as a complement to more traditional news broadcasts, offering a different angle and a broader spectrum of perspectives.
One could argue that this format adds value by allowing viewers to see their favorite personalities engaging in meaningful conversation. This can be particularly appealing in today's media landscape, where many news sources are seen as biased or overly technical. The View, in this sense, democratizes opinions by bringing them from a familiar and approachable source.
Historical Context and Evolution
Programs like The View have a long history on TV, dating back to the 1950s when home economics and homemaking were highly valued. Despite this, The View has maintained a distinct identity, focusing more on political and current event commentary than the earlier shows. Its mix of news and lifestyle content, coupled with the panel’s diverse backgrounds, creates a unique blend of entertainment and information.
Barbara Walters, the show’s founder, hired a group of talented and influential women, including Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, and Ross. Although these hosts are not formally trained experts, they bring a wealth of personal experiences and social connections to their role. This creates a dynamic and engaging discussion, which occasionally features in-depth interviews or expert guests, adding a layer of credibility to the show.
Conclusion: Value in Diverse Perspectives
In summary, while the hosts of The View are not professional experts in the issues they discuss, their unique positions as entertainers and public figures bring a valuable dimension to the show. The mix of entertainment, personal opinions, and expert insights allows for a more engaging and accessible form of news and discussion. For many viewers, The View’s appeal lies in its ability to blend expertise with everyday relatability, providing a fresh and entertaining spin on current events and opinions.