Characters Of The Show example essay topic

Cultural Media Watch A few common assumptions would offer some very general stereotypes which most Americans are probably subjected to each time they tune into their favorite program. The problem with making assumptions based on stereotypes, racism, and bias maybe considered two-fold. Of primary concern should obviously be the narrow-minded and over generalized prejudice which exists in mainstream media culture. Then, of only slightly less distress, would be the willingness of society to accept such demeaning norms. However, within the 'high definition' world of television, some prime-time shows are shattering overused typecasting. Although, some are not, also.

For instance, one such common immoral stigma would be that only men of European heritage may hold positions of authority; at home and more importantly, in an office. Furthermore, African, Spanish-speaking, and other ethnic Americans will be depicted as second-class citizens. Additionally, women of all races may not hold any high positions of a profession as do their male co-stars. Luckily, most of these false accusations were proven wrong.

For this analysis of television diversity, or lack there of, a look at the portrayal of African American men as in their position within a working environment, the dynamics of their family structure, and the overall social implications of such position (s) will be explored. Then, in reflection of the growing population of Spanish speaking people, a look at the near absence may reveal a certain ethnocentric standard of mainstream television. In such culturally dynamic shows as, The Cosby Show and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Afro-American men held such high positions as judges, doctors, and lawyers. Although, these two shows are directly linked to such positive portrayals, that is, almost all characters of the show are Afro-American, they offer an enlightening depiction of ethnic justice. Besides, Euro-American dominated T.V. shows have conquered most major networks since the first picture tube was created. Also seen on these were other non-white characters whom hold an array of savvy jobs and social ranks.

As an example, last week, on The Cosby Show, an African-American and a Spanish-American woman sat side by side with a panel of aristocrats while debating about some common social topics, namely women's liberation. As the show progressed both women seemed to be disregarded through most of the program. However, the show ended when both women eventually became fed-up with the insulting arrogance of their male-counterparts and verbally reprimanded their ignorance and specifically pointed to such behavior as to why women have become so imbued to eradicate their years oppression. Heavy stuff for day-time T.V. In a more diverse program, that is, in a show whose main characters are not of only one race, The West Wing depicts a view of the most powerful office in the world as a dynamic working environment but with an ethnocentric view of power. In this show African-American men and women hold positions of authority which have great consequences. For example, the president's closest assistant is an Afro-American male.

However, about ninety percent of all other characters are of European descent. Not one Latin-American may be seen other than a very brief appearance as an relatively insignificant character. An unfortunate depiction of our nation's capital. Somewhere in between The Cosby Show and The West Wing may lie a more representative sample of a culturally sound working environment.

ER portrays an environment of ethnic and gender equality. The characters of this fast-paced prime-time drama allows it's viewers to observe a place were status and value are achieved through individual determination and effort rather than the color of their skin. From doctors too EMT's, Afro-American men, Asian-American women, Lesbians, and Latinos are all seen playing important characters. Furthermore, the secondary roles are played be people of all races, not just those considered secondary-class citizens by all too many.

Turning on a television is in many regards along the same line as looking around at the many different social environments in which we live, both working and at home, or is it? Or the greater question might also stab at the more compelling idea of portraying what people are really like in real life situations; racist, prejudice, or open-minded and excepting? As well as, where such trends in T.V. and the social dynamics of it's viewers will lead into tomorrow. Whether daytime, primetime, or anytime many social injustices are beaming through the television.

However, at the same time, much progress has been made in evening the different ethnic characters of our dynamically structured society. The most important dynamic in issues of cultural injustices must be underlined with an analogy of choice... if you don't like what your seeing on television, either turn the channel or get a better hobby.