Final Word from Tuesday, June 12, 2012
TV Nova's evening news has gone even more down market since
Vladimír Mužík took over as news editor in Feb., but we don't
want to be judgmental here about the tabloidization of the
media. Mužík is very upfront about wanting to maximize Nova's
viewership at 7:30pm, and if he thinks that superficial
infotainment is the way to do it, who are we to argue? What is
worth considering, though, is the line at which infotainment
blurs into a purer form of escapism. By watching Nova's news,
viewers can take solace in the misfortune of others while hearing
a few unavoidable news items, but they are increasingly being
shielded from news of any real worldly significance. Some of
Nova's viewers will switch off permanently once they realize this,
but others will be content. As the world situation worsens, some
people will want more news, but many others will choose to just
close their eyes to what is going on.[Czech Republic Televizní noviny television CET 21 CME Central
European Media Enterprises]
Glossary of difficult words
escapism - the tendency to seek distraction and relief from unpleasant realities, esp. by seeking entertainment or engaging in fantasy;
to go down market - to target the cheaper or less prestigious sector of the market;
tabloidization - a change in emphasis from the factual to the sensational, esp. in television news;
to be upfront - to be honest and frank;
superficial - not thorough, deep or complete;
infotainment - broadcast material that is meant to both entertain and inform;
solace - comfort or consolation in a time of distress or sadness;
shielded - protected.