On the Media: "How Quickly We Forget" – Episode Summary
Introduction: The Funeral of George H.W. Bush
In the episode titled "How Quickly We Forget," hosts Brooke Gladstone and Bob Garfield delve into the media's portrayal of former President George H.W. Bush's funeral, exploring how the media shapes and sometimes oversimplifies the legacy of prominent figures.
Media Coverage of Bush's Funeral
Brooke Gladstone opens the discussion by highlighting how the media intensely focused on Bush’s funeral, broadcasting the extensive journey of his body from Houston to the George Bush Presidential Library. She observes, “It seemed to go on for a long, long time. But it was not unusual” (00:22), suggesting that the relentless news cycle may have desensitized the public to such solemn events.
Bob Garfield and Brooke Gladstone discuss the thematic portrayal of Bush's character. James Baker, Bush's secretary of state, is quoted summarizing the president's legacy: “His wish for a kinder, gentler nation was not a cynical political slogan” (02:20). Masha Gessen further emphasizes Bush’s genuine demeanor: “It came honest and unguarded from his soul” (02:27). The hosts highlight how pundits echoed this sentiment, portraying Bush as embodying “decency” and strength without arrogance (02:34).
Critical Perspectives on Bush’s Legacy
Anne Helen Petersen offers a nuanced view, stating, “What George Bush recognized about America, which makes him, to me, the last gentleman in Washington, was that our political opponents aren't opponents at all. They're friends with whom we differ” (02:59). This perspective is juxtaposed with David Greenberg's analysis, who argues that Bush’s legacy is often remembered in stark contrast to Donald Trump’s presidency (03:55). Greenberg points out that while Bush is lauded for bipartisan efforts like the Americans with Disabilities Act, his concessions to the far right inadvertently empowered more extreme factions (10:07).
Brooke Gladstone and James Ponet critique the superficial eulogies that focus primarily on Bush’s decency, neglecting more complex and controversial aspects of his presidency. Ponet notes, “He was denouncing the 1964 Civil Rights act” (09:34) and discusses Bush’s shift in stance on key issues like abortion rights and the Equal Rights Amendment due to political pressures (10:14).
Media’s Role in Shaping Historical Memory
The conversation shifts to the broader implications of how media memorializes political figures. Greenberg suggests that presidents are often remembered through the lens of their successors and prevailing political climates, rather than a balanced historical record. Brooke Gladstone underscores the importance of including diverse voices in historical narratives, questioning, “Do we remember those in power through how other people in power remember them?” (05:35).
Transition: From Presidential Legacy to Ongoing Political Narratives
As the discussion on Bush’s legacy concludes, the podcast transitions to another critical media topic: the handling of ongoing political investigations and their portrayal in the news. Bob Garfield introduces the “Hot Stove League” segment, humorously critiquing the media’s approach to the Mueller investigation and other political rumors (12:55).
Venezuelan Migration in Latin America
The episode’s second major segment addresses the Venezuelan refugee crisis in Latin America. Hosts interview journalist Diego Salazar and New Yorker staff writer Masha Gessen to shed light on the challenges faced by millions fleeing Venezuela.
Initial Reception and Growing Tensions
Initially, countries like Peru welcomed Venezuelan migrants with open arms. Masha Gessen shares statistics: “Until 2016, all the foreigners in Peru were around 100,000 people from every country. Now we have 600,000 Venezuelans” (18:17). The reception was characterized by warmth and support, with President Pedro Pablo Kucinski inviting Venezuelans to seek refuge and work in Peru (18:20).
However, as the influx continued, tensions began to surface. Gessen notes a shift in media portrayal: “It wasn’t anymore, you know, the celebration and the self congratulation about how good we were because we were helping our brothers” (20:58). Incidents of misinformation, such as false reports linking Venezuelans to crimes, exacerbated anti-migrant sentiments. An example cited includes a fabricated report of Venezuelan involvement in a rape case, which was later debunked (22:07, 22:43).
Media’s Responsibility and Societal Impact
The hosts and guests discuss the media’s role in shaping public perception of migrants. Masha Gessen criticizes the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes, such as portraying all Venezuelans as criminals or ungrateful, which fuels xenophobia and social discord (23:25). They draw parallels to the global refugee crisis, noting that similar patterns of initial welcome followed by backlash are evident in Europe’s response to Syrian refugees (24:57).
Diego Salazar underscores the human cost of such narratives, sharing personal anecdotes and highlighting the struggles of refugees in hostile environments. Gessen advocates for a shift in media focus from the perceived burdens of migrants to the harrowing realities they’re escaping, arguing that “the power to offer refuge is in the hands of the hostile, the indifferent, the selfish, or simply the overwhelmed” (27:55).
Proposals for Improved Media Coverage
Anne Helen Petersen introduces a thought-provoking proposal to address the inadequate media coverage of migration: dedicating entire days solely to immigration stories, akin to how The New York Times covered every individual lost in the Twin Towers tragedy (29:31). This approach aims to convey the immense scale and personal impact of the refugee crisis, fostering greater empathy and understanding.
Hanukkah: A Deeper Look Beyond the Festive Facade
The episode concludes with an exploration of Hanukkah, challenging the commonly held perceptions of the holiday as merely a child-friendly celebration. Rabbi James Ponet and Diego Salazar provide historical context, revealing Hanukkah's origins in the Maccabean Revolt—a complex narrative of internal Jewish conflict and resistance against foreign oppression.
Historical and Modern Significance
Diego Salazar emphasizes the duality of Hanukkah as both a celebration of religious freedom and a remembrance of civil strife within the Jewish community: “The miracle is not in the books of Maccabees. The miracle of oil that burned was a creation of the Talmudic rabbis” (43:08). This perspective highlights the holiday's role in fostering a collective memory that balances triumph and tragedy, urging contemporary celebrations to engage with these deeper themes rather than superficial traditions.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Memory and Media
"How Quickly We Forget" underscores the podcast’s central theme: the media’s pivotal role in shaping collective memory and legacy. Whether through the coverage of a president’s funeral, the portrayal of migrant crises, or the nuanced storytelling of cultural traditions like Hanukkah, the episode calls for a more responsible and comprehensive approach to journalism. By acknowledging the complexity of historical narratives and current events, "On the Media" encourages listeners to seek deeper understanding and resist the oversimplification that often dominates media discourse.
Notable Quotes:
- “His wish for a kinder, gentler nation was not a cynical political slogan.” – James Baker (02:20)
- “What George Bush recognized about America… our political opponents aren't opponents at all. They're friends with whom we differ.” – Anne Helen Petersen (02:59)
- “He was denouncing the 1964 Civil Rights act” – James Ponet (09:34)
- “The power to offer refuge is in the hands of the hostile, the indifferent, the selfish, or simply the overwhelmed.” – Masha Gessen (27:55)
- “The miracle is not in the books of Maccabees. The miracle of oil that burned was a creation of the Talmudic rabbis.” – Diego Salazar (43:08)
Conclusion
"How Quickly We Forget" effectively illuminates the intricate ways media influences our perception of historical and contemporary events. By dissecting the portrayal of George H.W. Bush’s legacy, the Venezuelan migration crisis, and the true essence of Hanukkah, the episode urges a more mindful and thorough approach to media consumption and historical remembrance.