Good Media/Bad Media Example
“The Main Reason To NOT Take Dogs To The Beach — Saltwater Poisoning,” an article published online on DC Gazette, exemplifies irresponsible use of media; it paints an incomplete picture of saltwater poisoning in dogs, making it seem worse than it is. First, the title advises people to not take dogs to the beach. It goes on to give an anecdote about Chris, a man whose dog got saltwater poisoning, which is described as “irreversible.” The article ends by saying that vets see “many cases every year,” and “short trips are advisable” if dogs are going to be taken to the beach. This clearly portrays a scary condition which should be watched out for by dog owners. It may be, but the article is lacking critical details. While saltwater poisoning may be “irreversible,” it is easily preventable by bringing freshwater to the beach for one’s dog according to Cameren Rogers on WebMD. In addition, no specific quantity was given for how many cases actually occur each year, and a time limit was not given for how short to keep trips to the beach. A more responsible version of this article may have simply discussed the condition without the scare tactics and informed readers how to combat saltwater poisoning instead of advising them not to go to the beach at all. In coastal areas, taking one’s dog to the beach is a common activity for dog owners. It is inconsiderate to scare them unnecessarily with the way the article is written.
In “Arming teachers through federal grants is not the answer,” posted by The Editorial Board on USA Today’s website, the author demonstrates responsible use of media by discussing his topic thoroughly and incorporating multiple sources and points of view. Immediately after introducing the topic and before beginning his argument, the author inserts links to two separate opposing arguments. This shows a respect for others’ views and the reader by allowing them to be fully educated on the topic. As he goes on to his argument, the author does not simply use his own views, but refutes his oppositions points. While this is an effective persuasive technique, it also allows the reader to consider other views and consider how different views compare to each other. Finally, the author cites sources in his article, which is required and the right thing to do, but also backs up his word.
After considering both articles, its clear that “good media” should be complete in its content, not leaving out information or using inaccurate portrayals. It must also be trustworthy. Especially today fake news is a prominent issue, and trusting media is becoming harder. If media can’t be trusted, it is worthless.
Works Cited
The Editorial Board. “Arming teachers through federal grants is not the answer.” USA Today, 30 August 2018, https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2018/08/30/betsy-devos-arming-teachers-federal-grants-editorials-debates/1123437002/. 3 September 2018.
“The Main Reason To NOT Take Dogs To The Beach — Saltwater Poisoning.” DC Gazette, 13 July 2018, https://dcgazette.com/2018/the-main-reason-to-not-take-dogs-to-the-beach-saltwater-poisoning/. 3 September 2018.
Rogers, Cameren. “Summer Safety: Saltwater a Lethal Threat to Dogs.” WebMD, WebMD LLC, 19 July 207, https://pets.webmd.com/news/20180719/summer-safety-saltwater-a-lethal-threat-to-dogs.