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American Behavioral Scientist
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From Sidekick to Sideshow— Celebrity, Entertainment, and the Politics of Distraction

Why Americans Are "Sleepwalking Toward the End of the Earth"

Timothy C. Weiskel

Harvard University's Extension School

In America, entertainment celebrities have entered politics, and the news media have become part of the entertainment industry. At the same time, political figures cultivate their role as celebrities, with image handlers and engineered media campaigns that treat voters like fans. President Bush has modeled himself on Ronald Reagan—the "western" movie actor as much as the president. The role bears little relation to reality, but it has become commonly accepted by a politically obsequious press and amovie-loving public. The persona is actively promoted by the White House as part of the politics of distraction—a strategy designed to keep the public from learning about what is being done in its name and with its tax dollars. The politics of distraction can explain why the public has failed to perceive the global climate crisis, but Americans will need to awake soon from this dream state if they wish to survive.

Key Words: politics of distraction • celebrity politics • climate change • media ownership • White House press coverage

American Behavioral Scientist, Vol. 49, No. 3, 393-409 (2005)
DOI: 10.1177/0002764205280203
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J. G. Payne, J. P. Hanlon, and D. P. Twomey III
Celebrity Spectacle Influence on Young Voters in the 2004 Presidential Campaign: What to Expect in 2008
American Behavioral Scientist, May 1, 2007; 50(9): 1239 - 1246.
[Abstract] [PDF]