Some primitive tribal cultures used to believe that the camera steals ones soul. Nowadays we all have cameras in our cell phones and there is no escaping the power of the technology. But it's not the camera that is stealing the soul. It's the multitude of images and news we are flooded with.
We are in the midst of an election in Canada. Where-ever we look there are signs and video screens attempting to influence us. All subtlety is lost. We are literally coerced at every opportunity.
Rather than our souls being stolen, someone else's is being imposed on us. Rather than our blood being sucked out of us, they try to force their blood into our veins. A media driven blood transfusion. The election campaign is an opportunity to see the every day actions of media influencers magnified many fold. The effect is obvious.
There is an off switch on the TV. We can avoid the papers. The net allows us to choose what we see more carefully. I am studiously avoiding two things; the royal wedding and the election. I think it's time to revisit some of those great Life On Earth programs made by David Attenborough.
Being informed is one thing; being coerced is quite another. Many people get stressed as a result of the bombardment of influence. The more you rely on your own original thoughts and values, the happier you are likely to be.
No comments:
Post a Comment