Jon Stewart, the host of “The Daily Show,” gives millions of college students a fresh perspective on politics. By delivering the news in a funny, creative way, he has tapped into the 18-to-25 year old market. But some people are concerned that college students are using “The Daily Show” as their only source for news. Their concern is that Stewart’s constant criticism of our country’s leaders leads to disrespect.
Stewart is motivating more and more young adults to be aware of government activities. On the other hand, using his witty sense of humor, he makes us laugh at our president and other leaders. The question is, “Is it more important to be aware of what is happening in our government, even if we are laughing at it?” I say absolutely. Stewart’s show is intriguing and provides knowledge for young adults, who otherwise would not be aware of any government activities.
An article in Newsweek discusses how college students think of Stewart as a God because he mocks the same things they mock. Many students turned to Stewart for coverage of the 2004 presidential elections, creatively titled, “Indecision 2004.” According to Nielsen Media Research, Stewart pulled in 2.4 million viewers.
Stewart has invited some of the country’s finest leaders to appear on the show. In September of 2006, Stewart had President Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan on the show. Before tackling the tough questions about Pakistan’s role in the post-9/11 war with Afghanistan, Stewart offered Musharraf a Twinkie. Its things like that which make young adults watch the show.
A student reporter for Texas Tech’s daily newspaper pointed out that Stewart shows us the stupidity around us, which makes us laugh, but also makes us think.
Writer David Obst, of “Revenge of The Nerds,” believes what Stewart does is harmful to young adults. Obst writes, “I’m beginning to think that things are getting out of hand. If people start by laughing at their leaders, they end up having no respect for them or the offices they represent.” He added, “My great fear is that Jon Stewart and his cohorts, brilliant, clever and funny as they may be, are creating a disconnect between our government and our youth that will have long-lasting consequences.”
People like Obst need to realize that anybody who watches the show has to be aware of what is going on in our government. If viewers are not aware, the comedy doesn’t make sense.
Stewart laughs at how serious people are taking him and “The Daily Show.” In a heated interview on CNN’s Crossfire in 2004, Stewart said, “the media is in a sad state if it is looking to Comedy Central for cues on politics and integrity.” He then added that CNN is a verifiable news network. “The Daily Show” on the other hand, follows immediately after an entire show based on puppets making crank calls.
In a radio interview, Stewart was asked what he thought about so many Americans tuning in to the show for the 2004 presidential election rather than reading the New York Times and similar reputable publications. Stewart replied, “Now that is either a terrible statement about the state of news in our country or the state of comedy on our program.”
The show doesn’t offer viewers any late-breaking news. As a viewer, you need to be aware that the topic is generally delayed. The delay gives viewers a chance to become more familiar with the topic. The familiarity is what makes the comedy understandable.
The hope is that young adults will tune in purely for entertainment, but while watching, their interests will be piqued and they will seek more knowledge. That is the beauty of Jon Stewart and “The Daily Show.”
Wendy Rhodes is a junior journalism major.
