When Law Goes Pop!

Media affects American culture in general.

I agree with the point Sherwin is making with this idea. “Media” can be defined as newspapers, radio, television and the internet- all of which are widely available to and used by the general American public. The vast majority of Americans use at least one of these forms of media each day to inform themselves of the latest news concerning society. Whether this news is political, educational, entertainment, etc, most Americans consider it important. The news that Americans keep current on defines the way Americans act and live, thereby affecting and changing the culture of America. Since the media is the only way news is spread to Americans, it has the biggest affect on how the stories are told and how American culture is defined and affected.

Affect of media on the laws of society.

I also agree with Sherwin’s view of the Laws of society being affected by the Media. Here, Sherwin is talking more or less about how entertainment media affects the way Americans perceive social laws and norms. The common belief that violent TV shows and video games are causing an increase in crimes and violence is a perfect example of this point. Popular media is teaching the youth of America that violence is commonplace, diminishing the intimidation factor of consequences. Therefore some people would argue that certain offenses shouldn’t have legal consequences. That is a direct example of the media changing societal laws.

The importance of communication in law.

I agree with this point. In the common American courtroom, the jury is the entity that decides the verdict of the trial. Lawyers and attorneys use the jury to their advantage. They play to the jury’s emotions, dramatizing events and emphasizing certain things to make their point of view more appealing. Another side of communication is detail. Details add much more credit to stories and arguments. In my experience, I’m much more likely to believe a story in which small, seemingly unimportant details are included because they add dimension to the story. When lawyers, witnesses, and the accused communicate these details, the jury would probably be much more inclined to believe them and understand.