Final answer:
True, instantaneous global coverage through satellite communication and the Internet can indeed lead to incorrect or misleading perceptions due to media bias and selective reporting. The complex web of information sources and the rise of social media have changed the role of traditional news media, potentially influencing public opinion and shaping political narratives.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that instantaneous global coverage of crises, through satellite communication and the Internet, can lead to people drawing incorrect or misleading perceptions from what the media choose to show or are able to show is true. The proliferation of communication technology has opened up vast amounts of information to the public. However, the way in which media is presented can lead to a biased or incomplete understanding of events. Also, the saturation of information might lead to news fatigue and a decrease in the credibility and authority of professional journalism due to the competition of numerous media sources and the rise of sensationalism over analysis.
While technology like social media updates provided real-time insights during events such as the Arab Spring, the content often reflects specific viewpoints, potentially creating skewed narratives. The transition from text-based to image and video communication has further amplified the spread of such tailored content. Moreover, the advent of 4G and 5G networks and the inclusiveness of smartphones in media consumption have contributed to the instantaneous spread of information, with all its attendant risks and advantages.
For example, certain nations may censor content to maintain controlling narratives, while others, such as the United States, face the challenge of combating the spread of illegal activities through international media. It is becoming increasingly evident that the impact of new media, especially in the context of the political process, is overshadowing traditional media. The role of news media has evolved from traditional reportage to structuring and shaping narratives that can affect public perceptions and the political landscape.