I
find it interesting and horrifying, the way ISIS has used and continues to use
the media to employ fear within others and as a channel for their threats. ISIS
has used Twitter, YouTube and even lesser known media sites to spread their
message. The message varies from appeals, threats, recruiting and even video
showing the slaughter of their hostages. The group can upload their message and
spread it globally within minutes. Just last month, ISIS responded to
Presisdent Obama’s approval of airstirkes by creating a hashtag on twitter.
“#AMessageFromISIStoUS” This is direct and immediate engagement.
It
is obvious they crave attention and recognition for their actions and they are
getting just that through the spread of these videos. Not only have they
received attention from their own videos but from our own media as well. We
have acknowledged them as a major threat, and have given this group extensive
coverage. Turn on any news channel and you'll see "ISIS" on your
screen. So here's the question, when is news coverage on one particular issue
too much coverage? Are we unintentionally aiding in spreading their message by
continuing to report on the situation or are the news outlets simply keeping us
well informed? And it's not just mass media that is to blame, it's social
media.
Our
constant need to be in the know has a downside. We have "shared",
"retweeted", "posted" "instagrammed" (the list
goes on) images, stories and videos relating to ISIS. Is America helping ISIS
promote their message? It's a fine line, a grey area. The media attention ISIS
had received and their unfortunately viral videos will only increase the
likelihood for other groups to follow in their footsteps. What can we do
now? The U.S. is making efforts to shut down accounts on social media and
remove these viral videos but as an active user on social media, I can resist
sharing photos and videos that amplify their message and encourage others to do
the same.
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