How Polititainment Is Tearing Us Apart — And Why We Can’t Look Away

News today is less about informing and more about entertaining. The rise of 'polititainment'—where politics is packaged as drama and spectacle—has captivated audiences but fractured societies. Outrage sells, and media companies know it. Sensational headlines and polarizing content drive clicks and ad revenue, creating a feedback loop that rewards division.

Humans naturally seek belonging and certainty, leading to confirmation bias—favoring information that aligns with our existing beliefs. Algorithms amplify this by feeding us content we like, creating echo chambers that isolate us from opposing views.

This environment fosters tribalism, where 'the enemy of my enemy is my friend.' People become entrenched in polarized identities, reducing empathy and increasing conflict.

Yet, awareness is the first step toward change. Recognizing polititainment’s seductive power allows us to seek diverse perspectives, engage in civil discourse, and reclaim media as a tool for understanding rather than division.

Understanding this media landscape prepares us to harness technology’s potential for connection rather than isolation, which we explore next.