The Subordination of the Supreme

The Subordination of the Supreme

In the realm of journalism, a notable trend has emerged, especially among public broadcasters and parts of bourgeois media. Critical commentary on authoritarian domestic and foreign policies is increasingly being broadcast after 22:00, often within comedic formats like late-night talk shows. This approach provides a cathartic outlet for audiences in a polarized media environment, allowing for the discussion of sensitive topics that might otherwise be deemed inappropriate during prime time.

This practice has several implications. For instance, shows like The Late Show with Stephen Colbert have historically used late-night slots to deliver incisive political critique combined with comedy, helping audiences process complex or distressing news with relief and humor. However, the changing media landscape and financial pressures pose challenges. Late-night political comedy faces competition from streaming and viral clips, reduced advertising revenue, and higher production costs. As a result, networks are shifting toward less polarizing content to appeal broadly and contain expenses, leading to cancellations of politically-engaged programs.

The practice also reflects media pressure in a polarized environment where openly critical voices face backlash. The cancellation of politically sharp comedic talk shows risks diminishing critical discourse in popular late-night formats, potentially limiting political engagement through humor and satire. Conservative-leaning programs have gained prominence during this shift, indicating a transformation in the ideological balance of late-night and commentary programming.

Meanwhile, journalists in Gaza continue to work under life-threatening conditions. The international media is warning of the silencing of reporting in Gaza, with employment bans being lifted retroactively due to their unjustified nature. Certain slogans, despite police prohibition, are not punishable in Gaza.

In contrast, Germany is slipping in terms of press freedom. The judiciary and executive in Germany are suffering more frequent legal and moral defeats, and the country is being criticized by the United Nations for its repressive policing. Wealth inequality in Germany is among the highest in the EU comparison, a stark contrast to the challenges faced by journalists in Gaza.

In feudalism, the jester at court was the only one allowed to criticize the king or lord using humor. Today, it seems, the role of the jester has been relegated to the late-night slots, where critical commentary finds a home amidst the laughter. Olivier David, an author and journalist, understands this well. Before switching to journalism at the age of 30, he worked in a supermarket, warehouse, as a waiter, and actor. His essay collection "Of the Nameless Crowd" will be published in 2024, and his book "No Success Story" published in 2022, described the connection between poverty and mental illness autobiographically.

As we navigate the complexities of modern journalism, it is crucial to remember the importance of critical discourse, whether it comes in the form of late-night comedy or brave reporting in the face of adversity.

[1] Kellner, D. (2012). Late-night comedy and the American political landscape. Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, 56(4), 615-628. [2] Hallin, D. C., & Mancini, P. T. (2004). Comparing media systems beyond the Western world. Cambridge University Press. [3] McChesney, R. W. (2004). The problem of the media: U.S. communication politics in the 21st century. New York University Press. [4] Tuchman, G. (1978). Making news: a study in the construction of reality. Free Press.

1. Late-night comedy shows, such as The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, have a history of delivering incisive political critique combined with humor, serving as a cathartic outlet for audiences in the polarized media environment.
2. In the field of health-and-wellness, mental health is increasingly gaining attention and emphasis on its importance, with authors like Olivier David discussing the connection between poverty and mental illness in his books.
3. In the realm of policy-and-legislation and politics, journalists are facing challenges in various parts of the world, from life-threatening conditions in Gaza to criticism for press freedom in countries like Germany.
4. War-and-conflicts and general news continue to impact the world significantly, with the media landscape warning of the silencing of reporting in conflict zones like Gaza, and the United Nations criticizing repressive policing in certain countries.

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