The Purpose and Impact of Emotional Debates on Indian TV News Channels

TV debates on Indian news channels are often consumed with overblown issues, manufactured views, and fake narratives, especially in emotional and political contexts. This phenomenon has become more prevalent since the early 2000s, primarily to attract a larger audience in the face of increasing competition from multiple TV news channels. TV channels are well aware that Indians are easily drawn to emotional content, often disregarding the fact that such debates lack substance and logic.

Reactive and Emotional Minds

Viewers who regularly tune into these noisy debates are often seen as having poor sensibilities and emotional reactiveness. Indians, in general, are portrayed as being easily swayed by emotions and preconceived notions. Such individuals engage in conversations that are filled with prejudices and senseless thoughts, which they then share on social media platforms.

The Role of Emotional and Irresponsible Content

The debatesmanufacture sensationalism by presenting views that appeal to the emotional and reactive sides of the audience. These debates often cater to a mindset that equates emotional responses with valid opinions. Experts, intellectuals, and other professionals frequently participate in these broadcasts, despite realizing the futility and lack of substance in such debates.

Shock Value and Participation

The fact that experts and intellectuals participate in these noisy debates raises a significant question: why do they continue to engage in such discussions when the content is clearly manufactured and overblown? Some might fear a loss of reputation or status, but the underlying truth is that these debates serve little value to the public discourse.

Uriah's Example

An example of the disturbing nature of these debates comes from Republic TV, where a woman made a provocative statement: "The Bollywood industry should be shifted out of Mumbai." This statement was made during a dialogue that was devoid of constructive content, further emphasizing the overblown and irrational nature of such debates.

Constructive Debates

It is notable, however, that there are occasional debates on non-emotional or non-political subjects where experts can engage in discussions in a studious and sober manner. Such debates focus on subjects like health, education, corruption, innovation, or critical analyses, which do not rely on emotional triggers to influence public opinion.

The focus on emotional debates on Indian TV news channels undermines the quality of public discourse and the ability of citizens to engage in meaningful, informed discussions. It is essential for both the media and the public to recognize the differences between what is real, logical, and valuable, and what is merely emotional and superficial.