In today’s age of information explosion, ‘manufacturing consent’ has become a thought-provoking social phenomenon. The concept was first proposed by American scholars Edward Herman and Noam Chomsky in their book ‘Manufacturing Consent’, which aims to reveal how the media can filter information and set issues to influence the public’s perceptions of certain events or opinions, so as to achieve the purpose of manipulating public opinion.
What is ‘manufactured consent’?
Simply put, ‘manufacturing consent’ is the process of making the public agree with a particular viewpoint or policy through the means of disseminating information. Whether it’s by sifting through information, distorting facts, or shaping narrative frameworks, the media and institutions of power have a subtle way of influencing our thinking. This influence exists not only in mainstream media, but also widely in the social media and self-publishing space.
Environmental blogger
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In exploring the theme of ‘Manufacturing Consent’, the example of environmental blogger ‘One Bag’ is representative. She shares her eco-friendly lifestyle through social media platforms, advocating ideas such as reducing the use of plastic and choosing sustainable consumer products. However, it is worth noting that some of her content may have been influenced by specific sponsors who, through her influence, may have linked their own products to the concept of ‘eco-friendly’, thereby downplaying the actual impact of their products on the environment.
For example, some plastic companies claiming to be ‘eco-friendly’ may, through their co-operation with her, package their products as eco-friendly choices, but in reality, these products may not actually reduce their negative impact on the environment. In this case, the audience may not be aware of the commercial interests behind the message when they receive it, and may be influenced by the ‘manufacture of consent’.
Reflection
As consumers of content, we should always be vigilant not to be manipulated by the process of ‘manufacturing consent’. When confronted with information, we should try to analyse it from multiple perspectives and identify the interests behind the content in order to get closer to the truth.
Have you ever noticed a hidden agenda behind a blogger’s content? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section!
