The framing of sexual scandals in media shapes collective moral perception and historical memory because it influences how people perceive the actions and motives of individuals involved in the scandal, as well as the cultural values and norms surrounding sex and power dynamics.
One way this occurs is through the selection and presentation of evidence, which can be biased towards certain narratives and perspectives.
If a politician's affair with an employee becomes public, the media may focus more on their betrayal of their spouse and family than on the consent of both parties involved. This can create a negative view of infidelity that goes beyond the specific case and affects societal attitudes about monogamy and fidelity.
The language used to describe the scandal can also impact how it is remembered. If terms like "predator" or "pervert" are used to describe someone involved, they become associated with immoral behavior that transcends the incident itself.
Another factor is the level of sensationalism in coverage, which often depends on the celebrity status or political influence of those involved. The more prominent the person, the more likely they will be scrutinized for every aspect of their life, including their past relationships and personal history. This can lead to a distorted view of who they really were and what led them to make certain choices. By focusing so much attention on these details, we lose sight of the complexities and nuances of their individual lives and struggles.
The framing of sexual scandals can contribute to the creation of historical memory by shaping our collective understanding of sexual morality and ethics. As new cases come to light, they are often compared to previous ones, creating a timeline of moral progress or decline based on changing social norms and cultural values. This can create a false sense of linearity and stability when it comes to sexual behavior, as if there is one clear trajectory towards greater acceptance or restriction. In reality, attitudes and practices vary greatly across time and place, influenced by factors such as religion, politics, and technology.
How does the framing of sexual scandals in media shape collective moral perception and historical memory?
The framing of sexual scandals in media shapes collective moral perception and historical memory by playing an important role in how people think about sex-related issues and their impact on society. The media has the power to influence public opinion through its representation of different perspectives on sexual scandals, which can include victim blaming, perpetrator exoneration, or both.