Final answer:
Infotainment shows mix entertainment with information, leading to a more informed and engaged audience regarding political affairs, although they may also contribute to misinformation and a decline in traditional news consumption. Politicians use these platforms to appear relatable and to connect with younger voters.
Step-by-step explanation:
The impact of "infotainment" shows on viewers can be quite extensive, affecting both their perception of current events and their level of political involvement. The combination of entertainment and information provided by such programs as The Daily Show and Last Week Tonight has led to audiences who are generally more informed and engaged with political content, as these shows often present news in a humorous or satirical way which can make it more digestible and engaging. Studies have shown that viewers of these types of programs often score higher on knowledge questions about current events than those who consume traditional news programming. However, the rise of infotainment has also contributed to a decline in viewership for more formal and traditional political broadcasts, such as the president’s State of the Union address.
Moreover, infotainment has fostered a culture where entertainment often trumps pure journalistic fact, leading to a potential for misinformation or a skewing of public opinion. This focus on dramatization over factual reporting potentially undermines public enlightenment and authentic democratic discourse. Despite these drawbacks, candidates and politicians continue to use soft news and late-night show interviews to connect with voters, especially those in the coveted under-45 demographic, displaying a lighter, more approachable side that could affect voters’ perceptions favorably.