Why Europeans Are Skeptical of US News Media
News media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and understanding of global events. However, when it comes to the United States, a significant divide exists between its news landscape and the European perspective. This article explores the reasons behind this skepticism, focusing on issues such as the selection of news subjects, partisan tone, and the commercialization of news in the US.
Selection of Subjects and News Coverage
One of the primary reasons for the skepticism surrounding US news media among Europeans is the way news is selected and covered. Unlike in Europe, where news programs typically aim to provide a broad and balanced perspective, American news media, especially television, often focuses narrowly on domestic issues. This can be markedly different from the approach taken by European news outlets.
For instance, during my stay in Boston, I noticed that news programs were predominantly focused on the local area, with little time devoted to covering international news. When global events did make it onto the screen, they were often covered briefly and only when the US was directly involved. Events in far-off places like Tanzania might be completely ignored, while tractor races in Wyoming could receive extensive coverage. This selective focus can make the news feel more superficial and less comprehensive to European viewers.
The Partisan Tone and Presentation
A more significant issue lies in the partisan tone and presentation of news in the US. Many prime-time news programs are heavily opinionated and often present news in a way that seems more like a sermon than a neutral summary of events. This can be off-putting to Europeans who are more accustomed to a more balanced and fact-driven approach.
Consider the examples of FOX News hosts such as Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity, and Laura Ingraham. Their segment-focused monologues and passionate debates can seem excessive to viewers in Europe. Even news programs on more ostensibly 'neutral' networks like CNN or MSNBC often feature similar dynamics, with anchors taking clear stances and presenting arguments in a highly ideological manner.
The partisanship in US news media is not exclusive to right-wing outlets. Left-leaning programs like Rachel Maddow, Keith Olbermann, Joe Scarborough, and Anderson Cooper also come across as heavily opinionated, often hammering their points and engaging in 'gotcha' moments. The goal of these programs seems to be less about presenting objective facts and more about convincing their audience of their perspective, which might not resonate with viewers on the other side of the political spectrum.
The Commercialization of News
The commercialization of news is another factor contributing to the skepticism of US news media. In the United States, news is primarily a commercial endeavor, which can lead to a tendency towards sensationalism and a focus on maximizing audience engagement. This commercial pressure can undermine the integrity of news reporting, making it appear more entertaining and less informative.
For example, in the late 1980s, when commercial television started to take off in the Netherlands, we saw a shift towards more shallow and entertaining news coverage. Today, similar trends can be observed in the US, with a greater emphasis on 'style over substance' in news presentations. This can manifest as more 'man-on-the-street' segments, flashy graphics, and constantly moving camera work, rather than a focus on deep reporting and data-driven analysis.
Conclusion
In summary, the skepticism of US news media in Europe stems from a combination of factors, including the narrow focus on local news, the partisan tone and presentation of news programs, and the commercial pressures that can compromise journalistic integrity. While these issues can be seen in news media across the board, their impact is often more pronounced and visible in the US news landscape.
However, it's important to recognize that the situation in Europe is not without its challenges. The diversity of political systems and viewpoints can sometimes lead to a similar focus on ideological debate, even if it is less overt and exaggerated.