Meaning:
The quote "Even as voters, we try to keep up with the guys as much as possible, mainly through television or ESPN" by Marcus Allen, a former American football running back and sports analyst, reflects the impact of media, particularly television and sports networks, on the engagement of the public in politics. In this quote, Marcus Allen draws a parallel between the way people stay informed about sports and how they stay informed about politics. He suggests that just as people make an effort to keep up with sports through television and sports networks, they also try to stay informed about political matters through similar media channels.
One interpretation of this quote is that Marcus Allen is highlighting the role of television and sports networks as prominent sources of information and entertainment in people's lives. He implies that these platforms not only serve as outlets for sports enthusiasts but also play a significant role in shaping public opinion and awareness about political issues. The use of the phrase "keep up with the guys" suggests a sense of camaraderie and shared experience, indicating that people, regardless of their gender, engage with televised sports and political events as a way to stay connected and informed.
Furthermore, Marcus Allen's choice of mentioning ESPN, a prominent sports network, is significant. ESPN has been a major player in the broadcasting of sports events and related programming, and its influence extends beyond just the realm of sports. By referencing ESPN specifically, Allen underscores the pervasive influence of sports media on the public, suggesting that it serves as a central source of information and entertainment for many individuals.
The quote also implies that television, as a medium, has a profound impact on how people consume information about both sports and politics. Television has the ability to bring live events, analysis, and commentary into people's homes, making it a powerful tool for shaping public perception and understanding. By acknowledging the role of television and sports networks in keeping the public informed, Marcus Allen underscores the importance of these mediums in shaping public discourse.
Moreover, the quote can be seen as an acknowledgment of the commonality between sports and politics as forms of entertainment and engagement for the public. Both arenas often involve competition, strategy, and high stakes, and as such, they can captivate and mobilize large audiences. By drawing a parallel between staying informed about sports and politics, Marcus Allen suggests that people approach these two domains with a similar level of interest and engagement, using similar media channels to stay up to date.
In summary, Marcus Allen's quote reflects the influence of television and sports networks on the public's engagement with politics. By drawing a parallel between staying informed about sports and politics, he emphasizes the role of media in shaping public awareness and perception. The quote underscores the pervasive influence of television and sports networks in keeping the public informed and engaged, highlighting the commonality between sports and politics as forms of entertainment and information.