I’ve often thought about the overwhelming influence of American media in Canada. I watch a lot of TV, way more than I care to admit. Of all the programs I watch, I hardly ever watch anything Canadian. I usually watch Canadian news and sometimes Corner Gas, but not much else. In fact, I probably watch more British TV since I have a somewhat strange fondness for Coronation Street (I can’t help it! I just love the way they talk). I think this is true for most Canadians, there simply isn’t a significant amount of quality Canadian programming available. Even Canadian networks make only small attempts to create original Canadian material, airing mostly American shows created by American networks. There is no denying that the economic power of the US, means that most Canadian shows look a little low rent in comparison. Take the infamous Idol shows for example, you would be able to pick out the Canadian version in an instant, paling in comparison to the polished, big budget American Idol. Even the talent isn’t quite the same… come on, you know its true! So who cares? Why do we need our own shows when we have such easy access to the entertainment of our neighbors to the south? I don’t really know, but I know that media and entertainment are a large part of culture, and if we do not have our own, does it become difficult to have our own culture? I really do believe that Canadians have a unique culture and identity of our own, but I have also noticed that we often define ourselves in relation to the Americans. We are nicer then them, we don’t share their politics, we’re not as greedy, etc. How do we define ourselves independently of them? I don’t believe I’ve ever heard an American define themselves in relation to a Canadian? I think that our culture and identity is deeply influenced by the infiltration of American media. One place I do see a unique difference, however, is in the media itself. Have you ever watched an American news program and then a Canadian one? The tone is significantly different. American programs tend to be sensationalist, editorialized and filled with things to be afraid of. There is always something to watch out for and protect yourself against. Canadian news seems to be more neutral, objective (relatively speaking) and positive. I know our news is far from perfect, but it doesn’t seem to be intentionally created to foster fear and blatantly promote particular points of view the way American news is. It is interesting that although American media is so prevalent and influential, it is through our own media that we manage to express our unique identity and perspective. Watch some Fox news and see what you think… Is this happening to this extent in Canada?
dream8 said,
February 7, 2007 at 8:15 am
I agree with you in the fact that Canadians use Americans to describe us. I mean would you rather watch American Idol or Canadian Idol? American Idol is more flashy more appealing, and frankly more hillarious, and therefore, you can’t help but watch American Idol over Canadian Idol. Not to mention that it’s pretty lame that Canadians can’t brainstorm a more creative thing, rather then copying our neighbors. I found it funny in the book how they almost made it sound like a large amount of Canadians really take pride in our TV shows. I would have to disagree, infact, sometimes I even feel embarresed. I think that we rely way to heavily on American Society, and whether we want to believe it or not, we are indoctrinated by their beliefs, and values. Eventually, there will be no division between us, and Canada will no longer be unique and independant.( in my opinion of course)