Reflection 7: Do You Have A Vested Interest?
Reflection 7 Whether Or Not You Have A Vested Interest In The Public
There has been a recent surge in the popularity of true crime media, encompassing television series, podcasts, and movies that focus on real-life crime stories. The phenomenon, often called the "true crime boom," has captivated audiences nationwide. Tori Telfer, in her article "Is the 'True Crime Boom' a Real Thing?" argues that this obsession isn’t a new development but has deep historical roots. She provides a specific example—early 20th-century fascination with sensational crimes like the Lindbergh kidnapping—which demonstrates that public interest in crime stories predates current media trends.
Telfer emphasizes that across all social classes and age groups, people harbor a morbid curiosity about death and murder. She points out small, everyday behaviors that reflect this interest, such as clicking on headlines about violent crimes or sharing unsettling news stories on social media. These behaviors reveal a collective fascination with the darker aspects of human nature. Additional examples include the popularity of true crime literature in the 19th century and casual conversations about notorious criminals, which underscore the persistent nature of this curiosity.
The author attributes the rise of true crime programming partly to changes in media technology, particularly the proliferation of digital platforms and streaming services. She notes that the internet, social media, and on-demand streaming have made access to crime stories easier and more immediate than ever before. Telfer suggests that creators of content and consumers alike play roles in fueling this trend; however, she places more responsibility on the creators, who shape and promote these stories for mass consumption. I agree that producers and media companies have a significant influence, as they actively design content to cater to viewers’ appetite for these narratives, thus driving the popularity of true crime.
Personally, I do watch some true crime shows. My interest stems from a desire to understand criminal psychology and the justice process. I believe America’s fascination with disturbing crime stories is rooted in our collective need to make sense of chaos and evil. These stories often serve as a form of catharsis, helping us confront our fears and anxieties about safety and morality. Additionally, they satisfy curiosity about human nature and the complexities of criminal behavior, which are inherently intriguing and challenging to comprehend.
References
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