In the 1960 Presidential Election, the difference between Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy highlighted how much appearances can influence public opinion. Watching the debate on the radio, you might have thought Nixon won, However, those who saw it on television saw a charismatic and self-assured JFK standing next to a terrified Nixon, who had just returned from the hospital.
This demonstrates how important appearances are. Depending on what they observe, people may have diverse interpretations of the same occurrence. JFK recognized this and took advantage of his composure and excellent looks. He even authored an essay about how media could have a beneficial influence on politics despite its risks since he was aware of the growing influence of television in politics. His observations hinted at how the media will permanently alter the political scene.
To put it briefly JFK, in other words, took use of the visual element of politics, understanding that candidates’ public image may significantly impact public opinion and eventually election results.
In the article “a force that changed the political scene” John F. Kennedy acknowledged the growing significance of television in politics in his paper on the power of the media. Being aware that television’s visual format could significantly impact how people perceive candidates, he was the first American president to make effective use of it. Politicians developed a strong relationship with viewers by using television to enter people’s homes. The Kennedy-Nixon debate in 1960 is a prime illustration of this. Kennedy was composed and self-assured, whereas Nixon, who was recovering from illness, appeared anxious and uneasy. As a result, viewers believed Kennedy had won the discussion, but radio listeners believed Nixon had stronger points. Although Kennedy was aware of the dangers, such as the possibility of manipulation, he remained hopeful about the power of television to inspire and engage voters. He demonstrated his mastery of this new medium in the 1960 election, which had a big impact on subsequent political campaigns.
Kennedy was aware of the risks associated with television in politics, even though he taken advantage of it to his benefit during the race. He maintained that political campaigns may become nothing more than shows if they placed an excessive amount of emphasis on appearances. As a result, Voters may choose to rely their decisions more on appearance than on policies as a result. Kennedy feared that campaigns might be produced or changed to mislead the audience for maximum effect, which is why he was worried about media manipulation. He saw that sound bites and carefully planned moments will be a major part of future elections, perhaps turning serious political discussion into amusement. For Kennedy, television was a two-edged Kennedy was aware of the risks associated with television in politics, even though he taken advantage of it to his benefit during the race. He maintained that political campaigns may become nothing more than shows if they placed an excessive amount of emphasis on appearances. As a result, Voters may choose to rely their decisions more on appearance than on policies as a result. Kennedy feared that campaigns might be produced or changed to mislead the audience for maximum effect, which is why he was worried about media manipulation. He saw that sound bites and carefully planned moments will be a major part of future elections, perhaps turning serious political discussion into amusement. For Kennedy, television was a two-edged
Although John F. Kennedy was aware of the risks associated with television in politics, he thought it had the potential to change politics in the long run. In his paper “A Force That Changed the Political Scene,” he made the case that television could successfully engage voters and help everyone comprehend politics. He pointed out that it could impact how candidates interacted with the public and had the ability to reach millions at once. Kennedy believed that people could see politicians in person, participate in political debates, and keep up with current affairs by watching television. Television provided live coverage, unlike radio or newspapers, enabling voters to base their decisions on what they actually saw. He thought it may increase openness and close the divide between the people and lawmakers. He was aware of the possible drawbacks of television, but he believed that these were outweighed by its advantages. Kennedy said that viewers got a clear idea of Eisenhower’s character because of television, which he felt could assist people better understand candidates. This viewpoint signaled a dramatic change in the media’s political function.
Near the end conclusion, the article “A Force That Has Changed the Political Scene” by John F. Kennedy highlights the importance of television in politics. He thought that television was a perfect weapon for political campaigns since it could educate and empower voters. JFK was conscious of the dangers, including manipulation and the emphasis on appearance over content, even though he used this media successfully during the 1960 election. His observations are still applicable today since appearances are frequently given priority in politics. In order to inform and involve the people, politicians must learn how to use the media properly. JFK’s ideas serve as a reminder of the significant responsibility that accompanies the media’s ability to influence political debate.