We Become What We Watch: How Media Reflects and Shapes Us

In the present world, if you aren’t online, you might as well not exist. Everything we do now revolves around digital presence. And the party that shapes the narrative is the media. The media has become more than a channel for information into one of the biggest powerhouse to drive and direct influences. It no longer informs us of the world we are in but is shaping our individual minds.

From cassette tapes to instant digital broadcasting and social media apps, the evolution of media has changed how we engage with the world. Today, one post, one video or one tweet can sudden spark a global discourse and change opinions of thousands about a topic. The role of the media has shifted from supplying information to advocating policies and cultural directions.

This unrestrained and fast exposure to the media has naturally influenced who we are. The narratives presented to us affect our beliefs, values and even the communities we identify with. By setting trends and modifying our preferences, the media defines our worldview the more we consume it.

While this influence can be empowering, it can also be dangerous. The media can broaden our perspectives, point out harmful norms and introduces us to new ideas. Equally, it can distort reality, reframe unrealistic expectations and strengthen biased narratives. What we see often now becomes the new reality, even when it isn’t.

The algorithm is to blame. They track our interests and emotions by feeding us content to reinforce what we already believe. With time, what we believe are our independent opinions are actually fragments of the information we have repeatedly digested.

You are what you consume saying remains true till date hence the need for a conscious consumption of online dialogues. The media we absorb becomes the lens through which we understand ourselves and the world better. While this is an advantage, it is also very important to be intentional about what to watch, who to follow and most importantly, we digest from every available information.

Media shapes us daily but how we react to what we are given is what matters more. Be active in challenging what you allow to influence you.