Spiral of Silence

In class we learned about the Spiral of Silence, which says that people won't share their opinions if they are in the minority. It also says that people live in fear of isolating themselves. I agree with this theory. I definitely think people either go with the majority or don't say anything when they're in the minority so they won't cause an argument or debate, or because they're afraid of being judged.

Part of the reason I agree with this is because I consciously do this all the time. I'm always worried about how people perceive me, so most of the time I don't give my opinion. I sit and listen to other people's opinions if they disagree with me and strengthen my opinion because of it. Another reason I do this is because depending on the subject, I'm not always educated enough to have a debate with someone. I feel the way I do just because, facts going one way or the other aren't going to change that.

I think an example of the spiral of silence would be the Holocaust. Hitler was rallying up Jews and other minorities he didn't care for and the rest of the Germans stood and watched, not because they condoned his actions, but because they thought everyone else did. Granted they likely didn't know that he was murdering people, but simply going along with Hitler as he blamed the Jews is an example of this.

Is Violence on TV Bad?

In class we discussed the idea of Cultivation Theory, which basically says that the more violence you watch on TV, the more cynical you are toward the rest of the world. I believe that to an extent. If you're watching the news four or five times a day and they report on murders and fires and drug deals, then yes, you're going to think the world sucks. But if you're watching a million and one cop shows, does that really effect your attitude on the world?

I would argue no. When you're watching a TV show, you know in the back of your mind that it's made up. The characters aren't real, the storyline--while it may be based off real instances--is greatly exaggerated. Was it necessary for that guy to hold everyone hostage in family court? Really? Over child support? Most likely he just shouted a few choice words and stormed out. But TV needs to be enticing so the story lines need to be embellished.

I do agree with this theory when it pertains to kids. That's why I think the violent shows should be on later at night. I remember when I was younger and I watched TGIF, I thought everything that happened in Boy Meets World was true. Granted I was only eight, but just imagine how messed up I would be if I was watching a show like 24 instead? With that being said, there is a definite distinction to what adults know is false and what kids think is real. Adults know that TV focuses on the bad parts of life for drama and a good plot, while kids haven't seen the world that much to know that distinction.