Friends, I welcome renowned political scientist Professor Jeffrey Berry to discuss the influence of outrage in media and politics. Jeffrey Berry is a professor at Tufts University and author of influential books such as The Interest Group Society and The Outrage Industry, shares his insights into how political opinion media has evolved and its role in shaping public discourse.
Berry highlights the transformation of media into a business model, where provoking strong emotional responses becomes a method to attract viewers and listeners. This phenomenon isn’t just about bad behaviour; it’s a deliberate strategy to generate profit by engaging audiences in angry discourse. Berry recounts his own experiences, including an appearance on Fox News, where he observed the performative nature of political debates. He describes this as “play acting,” where participants assume roles to provoke reactions rather than engaging in genuine discussions.
While cable networks have a smaller, older demographic and can sustain themselves without massive viewership, online platforms rely heavily on views, likes, and shares for revenue. This difference has led to a more splintered media landscape, where anyone can participate, but only those who manage to captivate an audience can thrive financially.
Berry points out that outrage media has significantly impacted political polarization. The nature of the business encourages extreme views, which in turn amplifies division among the public. This polarization is not only a result of the media but also a reflection of the political strategies employed by candidates. In primaries, where candidates vie for the votes of ideologues, extreme positions can help them stand out and garner support. This dynamic, however, creates a tension, as candidates must balance appealing to their base without alienating moderate voters.
Professor Berry discusses interest groups and whether corporate or citizen-based, play a crucial role in lobbying all branches of government. They help shape public policy by advocating for specific issues, often with significant resources at their disposal. Berry emphasizes that while interest groups are sometimes seen as selfish, they are also a manifestation of freedom, allowing individuals and organizations to petition the government.
The discussion extends to the media’s role in amplifying public outrage. Berry highlights how the media can set the agenda by focusing on particular issues, such as immigration, which has been a hot topic in recent years. He notes that the portrayal of immigrants as criminals by some media outlets has skewed public perception, despite evidence suggesting otherwise. This selective focus can divert attention from more pressing issues, ultimately affecting public policy and political outcomes.
The episode offers a comprehensive analysis of the complex interplay between media, politics, and public opinion. Berry’s insights into the mechanics of outrage media and the role of interest groups provide valuable context for understanding the current political climate. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that while outrage can be a powerful tool for mobilization, it also poses significant challenges for maintaining a healthy, democratic discourse.
