Why is Positivity Viewed as Boring?
I find that no matter how many positive and uplifting stories are written, the ones that are viewed as “juicy” or “interesting” are the ones that speak about controversy or malicious gossip. If two articles were posted at the same time on a website, one uplifting and one based on gossip, the one with the gossip would get the most views and comments. Why is that?
We live in a world where people constantly say that the media is full of violence, vulgarity, controversy and sensationalism. The public say that they want to see more positive news stories, yet when they do pop up they get the least amount of ratings/views. There is a great amount of people who rather see the inspirational stories, but the attention they get doesn’t compare to the amount given to all of the other types of news reported.
All publications, television stations and websites cater to what their audience wants. You have the power to dictate what you see in the media, and if everything except heart-warming stories seem to be what the people are attracted to then that is what you will get. It is true that our news must be diversified in order for the public to be as well informed about what is going on in the world as possible, but it should also be balanced. Stories that make you smile are few and far in-between. If you are one of those people who want to see more of those kinds of articles put on front street then when you come across one of them make sure to comment and share them with your friends.
We are constantly bombarded with news that makes us shake our heads in disgust or disbelief every day. Support stories that uplift others and show that they have just as much appeal as the sensationalism we participate in on a daily basis.
I don’t know.
Not that anyone cares what I think, but for this site in particular, I think one thing that can happen is to slow down the rate in which articles are released. What I see happening is that the more ‘positive’ articles are being overshadowed by the numerous gossipy ones.
The articles that are filled with more comments aren’t always because they are negative, but because a few, select individuals rile people up in the comments section.
I think it just depends on the positive story. I’m always interested in stories about Black women doing interesting things or achieving things. But in truth more non-positive stories are published here than positive ones. So how can you blame the reader?
I’ve noticed this too. This website is an example of that. I see all the time where people call for positive posts, but then only comment or engage on the “negative” ones. There is this saying in news that goes, “if it bleeds, it leads.” For some reason society as a whole likes controversy/violence/gossip. It could be that we don’t have a lot of it in our personal lives so we seek it from other sources…IDK.
I enjoy positive posts but I’m more likely to comment on a negative one when I have a difference of opinion or just want to put my 2 cents in. On positive posts there are hardly any differences in opinion so there is no need to engage I guess.
I agree, I read the positive articles, like the words of wisdom, but rarely comment on them because I do agree with them. “Neutral stories”, like the bad fashion one currently posted or travel ones, I post on because they are great for conversation amongst the other readers. You can share your positive or crazy experiences and laugh and learn from each other. When I post on the negative ones, it is usually because there is some crazy spewing nonsense.
I don’t think “positive” is the best word to describe what I would like to see. I don’t need to see stories that are about puppies and smiling babies. I just want normal/ neutral and fun conversational pieces a refuge if you will where I can come to chat and laugh and such. Not everything has to be about defending ourselves from people who push stereotypes and trash about black women. I can get that craziness from any other black website with a comments section.
Well said @ LemonNLime
I guess for some people, there isn’t that much to talk about when it comes to non-controversial topics. When there’s nothing to debate, then people don’t comment because there is no point to argue on. I read almost every article here, yet I don’t comment much (gossip article or not). I like the positive articles.
It’s not boring but because they tend to align with my thoughts and opinions, I feel nothing more than nodding in agreement. On a positive note what more can I add than an “Amen”?
But if it is something I don’t agree with and I have the energy to give a damn, I will post my sentiments. For this, I think those ‘controversial’ topics elicit such response.
Yes, I agree. That’s how I am in person. I only speak up if I disagree with something or I know that an answer given is incorrect.