Media's Obsession with Self-Promotion
Unlike nature, which loves to hide according to the ancient saying of Heraclitus, media outlets adore showcasing themselves in a regime of self-celebration. We have just witnessed one of those moments where an important event in the life of the company that owns Expresso and SIC—the death of Francisco Pinto Balsemão—mobilized journalists, politicians, and commentators for the greatest spectacle of mourning kitsch we have seen in recent times.
The Hagiography of Balsemão
The workers of the house (especially the journalists) participated in producing a hymn that exalted journalism as an epic and Expresso (as the embodiment of all the virtues of its founder, more than SIC, which has a less glorious history) as its great hero. It was a moment of ostentatious performative contradiction: the emphatic gestures of the journalists and the hymnal songs they sang simultaneously undermined the praises. Balsemão was led along the paths of sainthood; his hagiography was spoken and written.
The Role of Readers in Democratic Life
Readers are the strength and life of the newspaper. PÚBLICO's contribution to the democratic and civic life of the country lies in the strength of the relationship it establishes with its readers. To continue reading this article, subscribe to PÚBLICO. Contact us at 808 200 095 or send an email to assinaturas.online@publico.pt.
Comments
Join Our Community
Sign up to share your thoughts, engage with others, and become part of our growing community.
No comments yet
Be the first to share your thoughts and start the conversation!