The Colbert Report Season 7 Episode 96 Brooke Gladstone
- July 26, 2011
Brooke Gladstone is a respected journalist and media critic who is the featured guest on The Colbert Report season 7 episode 96. Stephen Colbert, the host of the show, kicks off the episode discussing his disdain for the increasing popularity of "listicles" and how they are taking over modern media. This sets the stage for his interview with Gladstone, who has been analyzing and critiquing the media for decades.
Gladstone is the co-host and managing editor of the NPR program On the Media, a show that dissects and explains how the media works. She sits down with Colbert to discuss the changing landscape of journalism, including the role of social media in disseminating news, the lines between fact and opinion, and how media outlets are adapting to the ever-changing digital age.
Throughout the interview, Gladstone is captivating and knowledgeable, providing astute insights into the current state of the media. Colbert, true to form, interjects with his own humor and satire, adding his own take to the discussion. At one point, Colbert jokes about how the media is responsible for all of the world's problems, including climate change and the recent lemur attack at the zoo.
Gladstone is quick to point out that the media does play a role in informing and shaping public opinion, but it is not solely responsible for global catastrophes. She goes on to explain that while social media and the internet have made it easier for individuals to access and share news, it has also created a culture of misinformation and echo chambers, where people only consume news that aligns with their preconceived beliefs.
The conversation also touches on the recent trend of "fake news" and the dangers it poses to the integrity of journalism. Gladstone stresses the importance of fact-checking and verifying sources, noting that it is the responsibility of journalists to provide accurate, unbiased information to the public.
As the interview comes to a close, Colbert asks Gladstone for her thoughts on the future of the media. Gladstone remains optimistic, noting that while there are certainly challenges ahead, there is also a growing movement towards transparency and accountability in journalism.
Overall, the episode is a thought-provoking and informative discussion about the current state of the media and its future. Gladstone and Colbert provide a balance of humor and insight, making it an engaging and enjoyable watch.