Pinker Vs. Orenstein

            In their respective articles Steven Pinker and Peggy Orenstein both discuss the effects mass media has had over todays society.  In Steven Pinker’s Op-Ed  “Mind Over Mass Media” he argues that regardless of all the bad press it receives mass media does not actually make us “dumb.” Instead, Pinker claims that when used in moderation mass media actually makes us smarter because it puts more knowledge at our disposal. On the other hand you have Peggy Orenstein who claims that the use of mass media such as Twitter and Facebook has changed the way we present ourselves onto other people.  Ornstein writes that because of mass media we know put on a performance, which we always had done so in a way, except that now or performances are done consciously. Ultimately what Orenstein believes is that the use of mass media has resulted in us becoming more self-conscious. That’s not to say that Orenstein is not a fan of mass media, on the contrary she herself sees the appeal in being able to connect with people all over the world.

            I believe that both writers presented valid points to support their arguments, however I lean more toward Steven Pinker’s argument. I believe that if we use mass media in moderation instead of using it excessively we can gain a lot. However, when using mass media we should focus on our tasks. For instance, if we have homework work on our homework, and if afterwards we have free time to just do whatever we want online then why not? Arguing against the usage of mass media would be like arguing the use of indoor plumbing today. If it’s available to use why not make the most of it. We stand to gain more by using than be alienating ourselves from it. In today’s world mass media is an asset. In fact, mass media brings the news to our fingertips allowing us to be ready for whatever comes our way.