Hits in the headlines #75
Only a few years ago, the talk about fake news was confined to dodgy social media posts, often easily detectable as untrue news sources. Though these kinds of posts have definitely grown year on year, what is perhaps more concerning is the entry of fake news into our otherwise “trusted” news sources. The first article is the story of how one of the top news apps was caught sharing AI-generated, fake news stories. Whether you read the news every day, or if you get your updates from social media, the prevalence of fake news is concerning. Can you tell if a story is less than genuine? What does this mean for the future of the news? What can be done about it?
The second article is about the changing landscape of TV shows, and poses the question: Are we even watching the same TV shows anymore? Well, the answer is, maybe. During the last year, there have been writers strikes that we are now seeing the effect of. Though the production of many shows has improved year-on-year, the quality of the writing has not. Good cameras and a high production value are no longer the signs of prestige that they once were, and while it is a great thing for the respect of TV, it is not so great for the stories that we are seeing. Some TV shows are epic tales of history or fantasy, stories of science-fiction masterpieces, dark and disturbing thrillers, and feel-good stories of self-development. Though the range is impressive, it means that in a splintered industry, there is plenty of “mid TV” that lies somewhere between “uninspiring” and downright boring. So, what has really happened to TV shows in 2024? And, will it ever be the same?
Finally, the video this week is a documentary investigation into the company Temu. With the slogan “shop like a billionaire”, the rock-bottom prices have driven millions to download these apps. But, as with all things, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Questions of quality, ethics, and fairness, have all been raised in relation to the app. Though, in a time where everyone is trying to spend less and save more, can consumers afford to stop using apps like these? Whether you have used Temu or not, it is almost certain that you have seen some advertising for it. Should we really be using it at all?
Why not use this as a chance to learn some new language?
Try to note some new language that you see or hear in the articles or video and bring it to the class.
https://www.vox.com/culture/354928/post-peak-mid-tv-quiet-the-bear-succession
https://youtu.be/xgH8HqGwg_Q?si=8lMDmByhqSYWwX3P
Remember, I always encourage you to send in your interesting articles, videos, or podcasts. You can message me directly, or email me here.
Have a great week.
See you in class!