Media Is a Reflection Of The American Culture

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Society has become more entertainment based during modern times; however, it is has always been present as an escape from reality. The forms of entertainment have changed drastically especially since the introduction of the television and the Internet. People are always looking for new ways to be entertained and those ways are easily available to them. Celebrity gossip is one form of entertainment. Whether it is regarded as harmful or viewed as pure fun is a major part of mainstream media. From Perez Hilton to newspapers and tabloid coverage, minute by minute notifications about the rich and famous are almost unavoidable. Its influences on new generations or society’s influence on entertainment itself is a controversial issue. Although many may disagree entertainment can be viewed as a reflection of culture and as culture evolves so does entertainment. One cultural evolution that occurred is the increasing value of appearance and youth. The fashion, make-up, and body weight of celebrities are constantly plastered across magazine covers demonstrating it is a central theme of American life. To make matters worse the gossip industry occasionally targets teenage celebrities as well. TMZ recently reported that, “Several media outlets have claimed Cyrus has packed on a few extra pounds.” People claim that the industry’s constant derogatory articles about teenage celebrities have a harsh impact on ordinary adolescents. However, the gossip industry is merely attesting to the beliefs and values of adolescents and staying fit and attractive is one of these values. As if rewriting the popularity contests of high school, the gossip industry praises the “flawless” and takes down anyone who demonstrates the slightest hint of a flaw. “Many of the so called "train wreck" celebrities are caught in the constricting hold of celebrity culture, aware that they must remain young,

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