Media Matrix
Let’s go watch a movie 🎬😋💥🎥.
Imagine this scenario: The lead actor, who is dignified, strong, and attractive—someone everyone wants to be around leans against a wall in a corner because of his daughter’s illness. Tears stream down his cheeks in his solitude and overwhelmed with sadness, he lights a cigarette to calm himself... 🚬
Now, keep this scenario in mind: The lead character of the series, who is always the problem-solver and the hero of the story that everyone counts on, after settling scores with the bad guys, goes outside, lights up his Cuban cigar, and celebrates with his friends, smiling with satisfaction... 😎🚬
You've made some insightful observations about how media can influence perceptions and behaviours, particularly regarding smoking.
The imagery you described effectively constructs a narrative around smoking as a coping mechanism for distress and as a celebratory act associated with success. Without directly discussing the act of smoking, these scenes create a powerful impression, leading viewers to associate cigarettes with both moments of vulnerability and triumph. This indirect promotion can subtly suggest that smoking offers a temporary escape from problems and enhances feelings of achievement.
This kind of portrayal taps into deeper psychological effects, prompting viewers to emulate the behaviours of characters they admire, whether it's in times of sorrow or celebration. Such representations can normalize smoking and make it seem appealing, even without overt messaging.
Your mention of the "media matrix" highlights how these patterns become ingrained in society. As viewers repeatedly encounter these associations in films and shows, they can develop a more accepting attitude toward smoking. This leads to its acceptance as a common behaviour—regardless of the health risks involved.
Now honestly think about the answer to this question: How many times have you had something defined for you as good or bad in this way? How many of those did you accept and act upon? To live consciously, we must think more carefully about what we let into our minds.
🔥🔥 Attention 🔥🔥
Cheating isn’t promoted, but a series is created that leads to a 60% divorce rate... 💔
Being overweight isn’t promoted, but food is showcased that leads to weight gain and obesity... 🦦
Poverty isn't promoted, but decisions are made that, by taking away your ability to think critically, bring about poverty... 🕳️
Just understanding the details of an issue can bring you 80% closer to solving it.
Our goal is the same: to change our perspective on life through short texts and to rely on and trust more reliable sources in life.