On November 16, Nagaland celebrated National Press Day, focusing on the theme “Changing Nature of Press.” Celebrations were held in Dimapur, Kohima, and Mokokchung, addressing the daily challenges faced by the press. A significant discussion point, particularly in Mokokchung, was society’s preference for feel-good stories over critical analyses. This tendency often challenges the press’s role in delivering objective reporting. The sentiment that media should not solely cater to feel-good narratives was emphasized, highlighting that the press’s responsibility is to inform and lead in forming educated opinions, rather than echoing prevailing societal desires or government expectations.
In Nagaland, citizens rely on the press to highlight their struggles, hoping to spur government action. While addressing these issues often garners governmental attention, the pursuit of only positive narratives suggests a concerning societal immaturity. The role of the press is not to merely provide comfort or entertainment, but to reflect the true nature of society, including its challenges and shortcomings.
The article called for a balanced approach, arguing that while people naturally seek validation and positive stories about themselves, a mature society must also address uncomfortable truths. The press must navigate its role amidst a society that often seeks escapism and instant gratification.
Moreover, the columnist criticized the growing trend of media focusing on opinions over news, urging readers to perhaps disengage from such distractions. This tendency in media contributes to increased public agitation rather than constructive discourse. The piece ends by questioning society’s dependency on media for feel-good narratives, suggesting that true contentment should arise from within, rather than external affirmations through media narratives. The article was originally published on November 27, 2024, in the Assam Tribune.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/biscuit-of-feel-good
Category : Public Space
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Publish Date: 2024-12-15 21:01:00
