Chapter 8 Summary and Analysis

Sontag looks at the way that the media steers public discourse, focusing public attention through its choice of coverage. The media, intentionally or not, mobilizes the protest against the Vietnam War. Similarly, the media creates the idea that something has to be done about the war in Bosnia. Despite such examples, Sontag sees that media saturation might contribute to public apathy. While images might raise awareness of events, repeated use of those images produces a deadening effect.

The argument that modern life perpetuates a jaded, apathetic outlook is not a new one. Sontag offers several examples of this critique dating back to as early as 1800. Before newspapers offered photos, she claims, the bourgeois consumed a host of horrors along with breakfast. Today, she argues, the public can theoretically be treated to as many tragedies and atrocities as it has time look...