Knowing the World

"Clearly to become a true leader, one must know the world as well as one knows one's self...Innovative learning is the primary means of exercising our autonomy, a means of understanding and working within the prevailing context in a positive way. It is a dialogue that begins with curiosity and is fueled by knowledge, leading to understanding...It allows us to change the way things are," a quote from Warren Bennis in "On Becoming a Leader" chapter Knowing the World. 

Although Bennis' text focuses on leadership, I found a connection between our class reading, "Popular Media, Political Cognition, and Civic Engagement: A Media Studies Perspective," written by Jeffrey P. Jones. It is obvious that in order to understand, we as individuals must be curious, we must take an initiative to learn more about subjects we know little about. 

A quote from Jones, "Whether we like it or not, in order to engage in the political debate we must now do so with media." Yes our civic engagement has taken a new turn; politicians are now using New Media (internet) partnered with old grassroots efforts on the campaign trail.  And the "News" has certainly become a window into the unknown political arena.  

Whether you are viewing numerous television sources or internet sources, media has created an opportunity to engage. In the very least, it has created an opportunity to learn. It educates those who are political enthusiasts via CNN, ABC, NBC, FOX, and it allows those less interested to learn through more entertaining media: The American President, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. 

Some argue that entertainment detracts from responsible citizenship; I believe that entertainment allows those uninterested, to at least learn a little. 

Traditional and New Media open a dialogue for the curious and allow individuals to better understand our own political arena, and the world's political arena. Ultimately, this technology has generated an opportunity for discussion and possible change. It can cross oceans and enlighten our society about other cultures. Even if you are unable to travel--you still have the world at your fingertips.   

As a broadcast journalist major, I am eager to join the industry that continues to engage and educate the public.