There is little doubt that we are an entertained society. The word, entertain, means to hold the attention of, to amuse, to take into consideration. It comes from the Latin word “intertenere”, which is composed of “inter” (between) and “tenere” (to hold). When we are entertained it is said that we are being held between reality and fantasy, morality and immorality. The odd thing is that society is a driver of what we consider to be “entertainment”, and the strength of any society is it morality and thriving families that hold it together.
In the frenetic pace of modern society, it seems the need for constant entertainment has woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives. As we oscillate between the realms of reality and fantasy, our minds become a captive audience, ensnared by the endless streams of media that promise to amuse, distract, and often distort.
In today’s world, the thirst for entertainment is driven by a multitude of factors. With the pressures of work, social obligations, and the relentless march of time, people seek refuge in the escapism that entertainment offers. This need to be constantly entertained stems from a desire to disconnect from the often-harsh realities of life and immerse oneself in a world where problems are resolved in 30-minute segments, and heroes always prevail.
However, this incessant demand for amusement does more than just provide a temporary escape. It shapes our perceptions, influences our values, and alters our understanding of reality. As we indulge in the never-ending buffet of media, we must recognize the implications of the content we consume.
Entertainment, in its myriad forms, has the power to bombard our captive minds with concepts that challenge the moral foundations upon which society is built. The messages embedded within TV shows, movies, and even commercials subtly infiltrate our consciousness, often without us realizing their impact.
One glaring example is found in the TV ratings guide that appears at the corner of the screen before every show. This guide, while intended to provide viewers with information about content suitability, also serves as a reminder of the pervasive nature of certain themes. Adulterous storylines, children born out of wedlock, the expectation of divorce, and the ubiquitous presence of same-sex relationships are now commonplace in the media landscape. These elements, woven into the fabric of everyday storytelling, reflect a shift in societal norms and values.
Interestingly, society seems more concerned with the tangible harm of smoking, complete with graphic warning labels and public health campaigns, than the intangible yet profound impact of media on the moral fabric of the family unit. The lack of warnings for adulterous storylines or the normalization of broken families in entertainment underscores a misplaced focus.
The portrayal of relationships and family dynamics on screen shapes the expectations and behaviors of viewers. As these portrayals become increasingly detached from traditional values, the very essence of what constitutes a moral family is dismantled. Children grow up with distorted perceptions of commitment, fidelity, and the sanctity of marriage, influenced by the media they consume.
While the allure of entertainment is undeniable, it is essential to navigate this balance between morality and immorality with discernment. The content we choose to consume should be evaluated not just for its entertainment value but for its alignment with the principles and values we hold dear.
As individuals and as a society, we must strive to be mindful of the messages embedded in our media. By consciously selecting content that uplifts, inspires, and aligns with our moral compass, we can reclaim our minds from the bombardment of immoral concepts and foster a media environment that reinforces the virtues we wish to uphold.
In this perpetual tug-of-war, let us remember that the entertainment we consume has the power to shape our minds, our values, and ultimately, our society. By making deliberate choices and advocating for content that reflects the best of humanity, we can ensure that the escapism we seek in entertainment does not come at the cost of our moral integrity. Let us be vigilant guardians of our minds, embracing entertainment that enriches our lives while upholding the principles that define who we are.
This is a prime example of there being nothing anyone can do, but everyone must do!
If this is my last post, I want all to know there was only one purpose for all that I have written; to have made a positive difference in the lives of others.
Anthony “Tony” Boquet, the author of “The Bloodline of Wisdom, The Awakening of a Modern Solutionary”