Question

What is the central idea of putting good deeds in headlines may not be so good

Answer 1

The central idea regards the ethical concerns of media focusing on good deeds in headlines, which can affect public perception and discourse. It debates the integrity of such reporting, the effect of media's financial motives, and the importance of comprehensive, objective news coverage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The central idea of caution against putting good deeds in headlines potentially relates to the ethical and integrity issues that arise in journalism and media coverage. There's an argument to be made that the media, in pursuit of financial interests or audience engagement, may prioritize sensationalizing success or good deeds without proper context or depth. This shallow reporting can be misleading and may fail to provide a comprehensive view of the subject matter. Additionally, a focus on only positive news might cater to bias, as people often choose to read stories confirming their own beliefs, further skewing public perception. This phenomenon has been discussed by Christiane Amanpour and can be influenced by factors such as media's profits, sensationalism, lack of in-depth government and public affairs coverage, and an unrepresentative range of views on policy issues.

Objective reporting is challenged when such stories are given prominence. The headline and tone of articles can significantly impact readers' perception and understanding, as identified by various communication models and literature. For example, the linguistic choices in a headline can reflect the author's viewpoint and suggest a particular stance to the reader. The significance of media responsibility is highlighted by Amanpour's views that the public, when presented with the full context and facts, are capable of compassionate and moral responses. Therefore, the implications of focusing on good deeds can be broad, influencing public opinion and the quality of public discourse.

Answer 2

Reporting on good deeds may change society’s expectations about performing them.

Step-by-step explanation:

"Putting Good Deeds in Headlines May Not Be So Good" is an article written by Tovia Smith. In his report, Smith says that when good deeds are publicized, one dimishes the value of being good or doing good deeds. While interviewing an expert, the expert said to Smith that when the good deeds, which should be an ordinary norm, is portrayed as extraordinary, it brings moral inflation. Performing good deeds should not be made an extraordinary thing as it poses the danger of creating expectations of not doing good.

People should perform good deeds as a normal standard, as a human being, and not to get a celebrity treatment.

Thus, the central idea of the article is that reporting about good deeds pose the threat of changing society's view on performing them as well.