Revisiting Trust in American Institutions: Insights from Tressie McMillan Cottom
In a recent episode of PBS News podcast "Settle In," discussions centered on the decline of trust in American institutions, particularly in the context of recent political dynamics. Sociologist Tressie McMillan Cottom, in conversation with Geoff Bennett, emphasized the impact that the Trump administration has had on perceptions of power and governance, and urged listeners to seek proactive solutions to feelings of despair.
Why It Matters
The erosion of trust in institutions is a critical concern for democracy and civic engagement. With increasing political dysfunction and widespread disillusionment, understanding the factors contributing to this climate is essential for fostering a more resilient populace. By recognizing the roles played by media consumption and political choices, individuals can be empowered to reclaim agency in their civic lives rather than succumbing to apathy.
Key Developments
- Attention Economy: Cottom pointed out that the commoditization of attention has distorted media landscapes, where sensational content often overshadows meaningful discourse.
- Political Decisions: Both major political parties have shown a lack of initiative in regulating technology companies, contributing to an environment where misinformation proliferates.
- Civic Engagement: Cottom advocated for active participation over passive consumption of news, arguing that engagement helps mitigate feelings of exhaustion people experience due to overwhelming information.
Full Report
Attention and Political Dysfunction
In her discussion, Tressie McMillan Cottom argued that the current media ecosystem rewards superficial, emotionally charged content, detracting from the informed and balanced reporting that is essential for democratic engagement. She cautioned against oversimplifying the issue by attributing political dysfunction solely to the competition for attention from platforms like TikTok.
Cottom contended that the current landscape is a result of deliberate political choices, pointing to a lack of regulatory appetite from both Democratic and Republican leadership regarding technology companies. This has led to a systemic issue of extreme wealth inequality and unduly influences campaign financing, undermining the integrity of both media and governance.
The Need for Renewal
Addressing the prevalent sense of exhaustion, Cottom highlighted that many people’s weariness is not due to the overwhelming flow of information, but rather from a lack of meaningful action. Drawing parallels between self-care and civic participation, she suggested that individuals should not retreat in the face of negative news but instead take action. Whether through protests or community involvement, active engagement can alleviate feelings of fatigue and foster a sense of agency.
Context & Previous Events
In this enlightening episode of "Settle In," Cottom’s insights build on existing discussions about the political landscape shaped by the Trump administration. The episode prompts listeners to consider the broader implications of declining trust in institutions and the necessity of nurturing a civic core within the media ecosystem.
