I consider it remarkable the amount of media coverage devoted to the Trayvon Martin case. Was he a victim? Perhaps. Was Scott Nelson a victim? Without a shred of doubt. Where is the ongoing commentary about this innocent infant? What does this imbalance suggest to you?
Kids, Gadgets & ADHD
This article (courtesy of Mashable) discusses several different views about the rise in ADHD diagnosis and offers what I think is a very nuanced view of the situation, crediting both pro and con views on the efficacy and effects of the gadgets our kids are using these days. Be sure to view the video clips as well.
Gold Lion commercial at Cannes
Gold Lion commercial at Cannes
This video is about one of the most innovative marketing approaches I have ever seen, in terms of marketing to poor people (who, after all, outnumber the rest of us by quite a bit). Have a look and tell me if you don’t think is one of the greatest ideas in many a year! Clearly, this is a case where human behavior and media have intersected in a very positive way.
Reality TV viewing & narcissism
Reality TV viewing & narcissism
This post from Medscape discusses a recent study that purports to show a link between narcissistic traits and viewing certain kinds of reality TV programs. While causality, as such, is not addressed by the study and actually statistical significance is lacking, the general observation is that the relationship between the activity and the trait(s) may be a sign of re-norming. There is no question that media consumption influences such norm-resident factors as attitude development and belief systems. Still, the unsolved question here is: Do people tending to have these traits self-select for viewing this type of content, or does viewing this type of content influence trait formation?
Is background music a form of multitasking?
Is background music a form of multitasking?
I have long been opposed to the concept of multitasking on the grounds that it inhibits cognitive focus and productivity. The research generally supports this view. But what about background music? Well, this excellent article summarizes several research threads that find both positive and negative effects that depend both on the type of music being played and the task itself. Does this match up with your own experience?
One-man brass band
Media and the mind make a very interesting connection in this Wimp.com video piece. I watch in awe and wonder how this gentleman’s brain is wired, that he is able to do what he does. Watch for yourself. Comments appreciated.
Creativity can mean less of something
This video was brought to my attention by one of my colleagues. It’s about a group of entertainers who call themselves “Shadowland” for what you will see are very obvious reasons. In a world where it seems we obsess about more of everything, this wonderful group shows us that two dimensions can be more creative than three, that black and white can be more moving than color. Enjoy: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=355595084541603&set=vb.139641396188202&type=2&theater
Is Wheat Thins crazy?
Some of my colleagues have taken offense at a new commercial for Wheat Thins, saying that it typifies an insensitive and unhealthy attitude toward mentally ill persons. Take a look and let me know what you think: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-TMETu1_1Q
Are cars a media form?
I’d never thought of the automobile as a media form before, but this article in the NY Times caught my eye:
It’s all about how the car makers are worried that today’s young people are waiting longer than ever to get driver’s licenses and that the automobile as the über-icon of independence is being replaced by the smart phone and the tablet. The car as social glue is giving way to the online revolution. The article notes, “The shift in attitudes is being spurred by technology, in that many younger consumers are more interested in the newest smartphone or tablet than in the newest sedan or T-top.”
So I guess the car was a form of social media before we had social media. Looked at this way, it makes perfect sense!
mediainmind 