James Wolcott: 'Who elected Larry King America's grief counselor? We, the viewing public, did, by driving up his ratings whenever somebody famous passes.'

Who elected Larry King America's grief counselor? We, the viewing public, did, by driving up his ratings whenever somebody famous passes.

In the world of television, there are few figures as synonymous with the word "interview" as Larry King. With his distinctive suspenders and gravelly voice, King became an iconic presence on our screens, seemingly able to get anyone to open up and share their deepest secrets. However, acclaimed American writer James Wolcott challenges the authority and influence Larry King possesses in his quote, "Who elected Larry King America's grief counselor? We, the viewing public, did, by driving up his ratings whenever somebody famous passes." This statement encapsulates the idea that the public has willingly bestowed upon King the role of consoling and understanding their collective grief. It forces us to question the power dynamics at play in the media and how a seemingly innocuous act of consuming celebrity news can inadvertently shift the balance of influence.At first glance, Wolcott's quote may seem like a straightforward critique of the public's obsession with celebrity culture and their willingness to grant King an emotional role he may not have sought out or deserved. The American viewing public, in their quest for an outlet to emotionally process the passing of beloved public figures, turned to King and elevated his ratings as a means of collective grieving. This observation raises the question of whether King's appointment as a grief counselor was a conscious decision or simply a consequence of public demand.However, delving deeper into Wolcott's quote, we can also unearth a philosophical reflection on the nature of public trust and the societal construction of authority figures. Who are we to invest such emotional weight in a television journalist? Is it merely because we see them on our screens day in and day out, or is it a deeper psychological longing for connection and understanding that drives our attachment to these media figures? Wolcott's words invite us to consider the enigmatic and complex relationship between the media, the public, and our collective emotions.Furthermore, this quote sparks a fascinating philosophical concept known as the "consent of the governed." Popularized by Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, this concept asserts that the authority of those in power is derived from the consent and agreement of the people they govern. In this case, the public, through their viewership and engagement, have effectively given their consent to Larry King to assume the role of their grief counselor. It is intriguing to view this unexpected philosophical lens through which we can assess the relationship between media personalities and their audience.The contrast between the seemingly trivial act of driving up ratings and the profound impact it can have on public perception and influence is striking. It speaks to the power of the media and the responsibility they hold in shaping public opinion and emotions. Perhaps this quote by Wolcott serves as a cautionary reminder that we must be aware of the choices we make as consumers of media, and the unintended consequences that may follow. Our collective grief should not be preyed upon or commercialized for the sake of ratings and popularity.In conclusion, James Wolcott's quote offers a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between media figures and the public they serve. By examining the implications of our viewing habits and the collective consent we bestow upon certain individuals, we are compelled to confront the authority we inadvertently grant to those in the media. It is a reminder that we should approach our consumption of celebrity news and media with a critical eye, mindful of the impact it may have on our collective emotions and the unintended consequences of our choices.