Televised Politics: Presentation Skills

The presidential debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon was a major event of the 20th century.  This debate on September 26, 1960 marked television's grand and lasting entrance into presidential politics.  It was the first chance for so many potential voters to actually see their candidates in competition.  Studies after this televised event found that the audience of 70 million claimed by a large margin that Kennedy was the winner of the debate.  In contrast, the debate's radio audience claimed that Nixon was the winner.  At the time, Nixon was just released from two weeks in the hospital, was underweight, and refused to wear make-up to brighten his image.  Kennedy on the other hand looked confident, tan, and well-rested.

Many concluded from this that those who tuned into the debate via television were focused on what they saw rather than what was actually said.  Kennedy looked better and had a more smooth, charismatic feel about him.  His appearance a difference.  Does that mean that televising politics is wrong? No.

Televising politics really did change the nature of presidential politics.  It has been a technological advancement responsible for an increase of informed participation in the political process.  Also, the importance of personal image has become a more important factor for candidates which I believe is not necessarily a bad thing.  As the world is inevitably becoming more televised and globalized.  How a politician presents him or herself is important in making negotiations, addressing the public, and bringing confidence to a nation. How a person presents him or herself is completely different than physical appearance, but sadly physical appearance has become an unavoidable determining characteristic for politicians as well.

Also, there is a fine line between presenting oneself well and being a flatterer.  The Book of Mormon was truly written for our day.  In Mosiah 11:7 it says,

   

"..they were deceived by the vain and flattering words of the king and priests; for they did speak flattering things unto them."

When I think of general authorities for the church, I think that not necessarily every one of them is the most handsome man to walk the earth (don't get me wrong, I think they are all great) but they are all do a fine job of presenting themselves.  They don't tell us things just because that is what we want to hear.  They aren't flatterers.  We can look for the presenters without choosing flatterers.

Televised politics allows voters to recognize presenting skills of candidates which is an important consideration for candidates which is hopefully prioritized after considerations of actual issues.  Although presentation skills are important for politicians, they are all too often weighted too heavily.  We should be aware that televising politics is virtually unavoidable and creates both positive and negative effects in regard to informing voters.  

Below is a link of a YouTube video called "BUSH: The 10 most stupid moments of his life."  If these were my top 10 most stupid moments, I would be proud of myself.  However, it does have to do with the importance of self-presentation and composure in political office.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0D4uAW_3Gjg