Hail Tim Robbins!

I recently read the transcript of Tim Robbins' speech to the National Press Club and I have to say HALLELUJAH! He talks a lot about politics and the war but I think there are some key notes in his speech that should be pointed out. 

Media today is a major power house and most people don't realize the impact and manipulation it has. Robbins notes, "Every day, the air waves are filled with warnings, veiled and unveiled threats, spewed invective and hatred directed at any voice of dissent." He was speaking about how he and Susan Sarandon were scrutinized and black listed for speaking out against the war in Iraq. Anyone that opposes the actions of the government were attacked. After the tragedy of 9/11, the nation should have united! Instead the only thing that the media encouraged was hatred and division of people. 

Another interesting note he made was, "We need leaders, not pragmatists that cower before the spin zones of former entertainment journalists." I've never thought about it before, but looking at it closer, the government is greatly influenced by the media. They know that media holds the power over the people! It's corny, but it kind of reminds me of the days back in high school. The school nerd kisses butt to the popular athlete. Even though he knows he has the brains, it's the popular kid that controls the school and what everyone thinks. You can see the influence of the media in the recent election campaigns. The media pushed for Sen. Hillary Clinton to back out of the race in June. (read about it here) Our government may have some control over the media, but untimely it is the media that will lead their political demise.

I believe that Tim Robbins' speech was a good wake up call for anyone that listened. Hopefully, the media will take note and use their power for the greater good!