Example of Media Fearmongering
In a recent article published on a Seattle, WA. news site, it has been reported that an explosive device was found near where a woman was struck by a train. The headline for the article states:
“Explosive Device Found In Seattle Park Where Woman Killed By Train“
So anyone reading the article will naturally assume that there was some sort of bomb on or near the tracks, since it’s empherically stated in the headline.
Reading further through the article, however, the headline is contradicted by the following statement:
“While searching the scene, a crew found what appeared to be some sort of explosive device in the area similar to a pipe bomb.”
“…what appeared to be” “similar to a pipe bomb.” is a LOT different than the impression the headline gives. The fact is – they “think” it’s some sort of explosive device. Or rather, they don’t know what the hell it is.
It’s media garbage like this that makes my blood boil. In this time of information overload, scanning news headlines and a TL;DR (too long; didn’t read) mentality, readers see the headline and assume the next time they take a train they may be blown up. The public then gets concerned and cries “someone in power needs to protect us!” and soon there’s airport-style passenger screening at train stations. The fact that the “device” may or may not have been a bomb, or the fact that a passenger sitting inside a train would have a hard time putting a device on the tracks outside the station means nothing to them. Because their minds are gripped by the fear of being blown up.
The FACT is – the headline of the news article in question here is a lie. Be careful when consuming any sort of media these days. Whether it’s a newspaper article, an article on a site, a news show on TV or a Youtube video, read (or watch) it very carefully while in a logical and analytical frame of mind. Look for the facts and if the subject matter of the report is important to you, do your own investigating and gather your own facts.
There are only two facts in that article: 1) a woman was killed by a train in Seattle, WA. 2) something crews “think” was an explosive device was found near the scene. Other than that, the article is completely devoid of relevant information. It is nothing more than a fearmongering piece.
By Paul Short on 25/11/2011
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