Critical Analysis Essay

For a second, imagine you were living through the Presidential Election of 1960 between Vice President Richard Nixon, and Irish American Senator, John F. Kennedy. You listened to the debate on the radio and you’re sure Nixon won, but when talking to your neighbor, she is astonished you think so. She paints you a picture of a handsome, confident JFK standing next to a sweaty, seemingly nervous Nixon. How drastically can opinions be affected just by appearances, and how can this be manipulated to one’s benefit? If millions were tuned into the same broadcast, why is it that there is such a discernable distinction between those who listened to the debate and those who watched? In this text, Alex Pasternack speaks of JFK’s advanced understanding of the introduction of media in politics and includes an essay of his from 1959, a year before his election, about the benefits and risks.

In his essay, JFK explicitly expresses his support and optimism about the positive impact television would have on politics, stating that he sides with those who feel its net effect can definitely be for the better” (Pasternack 4).” He details the many benefits media has presented, for example, accessibility to news/events around the country and fast communication between citizens and politicians. Throughout the essay, JFK seems set out to guide the nation as America figures out how to navigate a new era of media and technology. To get his point across, he uses figurative language to pose the question “What if the benefits of media were around longer?” Kennedy would use the Impeachment trial of President Andrew Johnson as an example, stating that “even if every seat in the Senate galleries had been occupied by a different person every day for the two months of trial, no more than 3000 people could have witnessed that historic event” (Pasternack 4). To solidify his argument he compares it to the Army-McCarthy hearings where an estimated 70 million viewers tuned in, showing that there is an interest in witnessing moments as such—even if it’s from behind a screen.

Kennedy spoke of the risks of media as if to warn the public. Where there is power, there will always be people trying to take advantage. As he gives advice, JFK directly addresses the reader and reminds them of their responsibilities, saying “It is in your power to perceive deception, to shut off gimmickry […] Without your approval, no TV show is worthwhile, and no politician can exist” (Pasternack 7). I believe JFK is appealing directly and creating a connection with his audience as he offers insight. Another rhetorical device used frequently in his essay is comparison—how were things then and how are things now? On page 4, Kennedy mentions Woodrow Wilson’s “intensive” cross-country tour 40 years prior where he suffered a stroke before he could finish his speeches. To compare a situation like this to his present day, he says “Today, President Dwight Eisenhower […] is able to reach several million in one 15-minute period without ever leaving his office” (Pasternack 4). Using these techniques, Kennedy tried his best to impart wisdom to the people of America in this revolutionary time.

In the essay, JFK spoke directly to the people. His message was meant for the people of America who needed a sincere and responsible leader, especially in the age of new technology that could be used for manipulation. To be more specific, Kennedy wanted to address voters, letting them know about the positive impact media would bring while also warning them of the dangers. Though Kennedy sincerely believed media would positively revolutionize politics, along with the rest of the world, not many shared the sentiment. At the beginning of the text, Alex Pasternack offers context behind the 1960 presidential debate, stating that “[after the election,] the television was so intimidating to future candidates that they generally avoided them: the next televised presidential debate wouldn’t take place for another 16 years.” Kennedy was able to use his advanced understanding of the media to his advantage and he definitely made a mark. Even today, he’s regarded as one of the most attractive U.S. presidents, but not everyone would have his incredible luck. Surely, other candidates must have felt intimidated by how they’d be perceived by the cameras and the public, especially without any prior media experience. Politicians knew a few ways to campaign, including dodging questions, evading “hot” issues, and taking definitive stands (Pasternack 5), likely to maximize the number of votes gained by being vague. But now there is an entirely new component to worry about when campaigning and some politicians must have felt scared that the viewing public would see through their “gimmickry”. Seeing as the next televised presidential debate would take place 16 years after the first one, I’d say some people were likely skeptical of incorporating media into politics. Whether out of genuine concern or just out of fear of being perceived by the public and risking a bad image.

In conclusion, John F. Kennedy’s essay “A Force That Has Changed the Political Scene” has highlighted how important television is in politics. Although the media presented many issues, JFK stayed persistent that the benefits were well worth it. His assertions have stayed relevant to modern-day media and politics, which often seem to give more importance to image and appearances as Kennedy feared. Yet media in politics have opened many new borders in the world and made it easier for citizens to stay informed, and even be a part of political matters today. Politicians and the viewing public had been given a large responsibility when media was introduced into politics. For politicians to stay true and use media responsibly, and for the public to stay aware of manipulation and misinformation in the media. It is crucial to remember this, more now than ever.

Works Cited

Pasternack, Alex. “‘A Force That Has Changed the Political Scene’: JFK’s Essay on His Favorite (and Most Feared) Technology.” VICE, 30 July 2024, www.vice.com/en/article/a-force-that-has-changed-the-political-scene-when-jfk-schooled-america-on-tv-in-politics/. Page 4.