Intro to the Ever-Expanding Treatise

There's an elementary theory in the realm of communication concerning the media-audience relationship that is known as the Two-Step Flow. This theory, purported by two of the most famous American sociologists, Paul Lazersfeld and Elihu Katz, claims that, as the name suggests, there are two steps in the receiving of information.

One: Media-be it television, publications, online, or otherwise- is presented to the masses.

Two: The information is then dissiminated through "opinion leaders", that is, people with a more literate understanding of media content, who then explain it to those around them.

From this standpoint, we can either conclude that it's hilariously ironic that Lazersfeld and Katz are American, or that these "opinion leaders" are going extinct faster than clear Pepsi did.

The overall intelligence of these great United States is fizzling. The old saying "you're only as strong as your weakest link" means we as a nation are a dunder head only thinking about how to get on the newest, all-the-rage reality show.

This (the dunder head part) was most evident in a widely-publicized recent poll that revealed more US citizens could name the Three Stooges than could name the three branches of government. It's unclear whether the researchers gave partial credit for answers like "the President", "that judgey part", or "laws". But, under No Child Left Behind, it was probably mandatory.

I find this frustrating. Nay, infuriating. Because that is just where the politicos, figureheads and power-hungry elected officials want us-not knowing where we are and pretty ok with that set up. That way they get to get away with stuff. They can release well-tailored information without fear of rebuttal or accountability from the citizenry. Either that, or Moe will receive a few angry letters concerning the way he's running the country.

So, now that you've been introduced to my greatest pet peeve, allow me to introduce myself. I'm a freelance designer/writer with a degree in journalism, a minor in English, a penchant for grammar, an insatiable hunger for intelligent discourse (albeit sometimes with smarmy comments), a love of fine art, my own design studio and a need for good humor and a drive to help my fellow man not be bested by those that don't deserve to best them. This blog will serve as the direct line to my brain, flush with all the inner-workings and meanderings that lie therein.

Why? Well, first and foremost for my own well being. A good stress reliever is priceless and it's no coincidence that blogging is free (hyuck hyuck).

Secondly, because the internet rules (pwns if you prefer). Anyone can be an opinion leader in this day and age thanks to the mass publication capability right at the end of our fingers. You don't even have to have an informed opinion, though, to be taken seriously, I strongly recommend it. Well, I take that back. Someone who doesn't know what they are talking about, yet will defend their stance unwaveringly, is always fodder for a hearty laugh. I've certainly played that role before and I'm sure I'm bound for it again at some point.

Lastly, I can't pass up this opportunity to join the real all-volunteer fighting force-the American blogosphere. I hear the calling, dear Lawd! I look forward to serving with the thousands and thousands of other writers showing those that would take advantage of us what-for.

What's most important for all America, hell, for all people, is that you get involved. Become a part of the process. Add that second step in the media flow, avoiding the hypodermic needle.That way you have some perspective. You know the ins and outs. It makes it much more difficult to take advantage of you. And that is what is really happening to the American public.


I'm reminded of the infamous wits-off to the death between Westley and the Sicilian Vizzini in The Princess Bride. During the seated duel, Vizzini (played here by the media/politicos) seemingly throws off our hero, Westly (us), by pointing over his should at "something" (e.g. John Mark Karr, Terri Schiavo) while he switches the cups. But this is no concern to Westley. He plays along, knowing he already acclomated himself to the poison by internalizing it, making his body learn to combat it, thus inoculating himself.

We, too, must internalize to combat. We must learn the ropes to untie the noose. We must engage to thwart. We must drink the ink.