This is the Season of Giving in America, during which citizens are encouraged to donate to their favorite charities and non-profit organizations. After all, these groups are vital to the welfare of a large segment of our population and their work is a major factor in our efforts to deal with the inequities in human society.
In recent years, CNN has drawn attention to the achievements of various persons across the globe who have made a significant impact on the lives of the less fortunate. Called "heroes" by the network, they receive valuable exposure for the work that they do and, as a result, likely receive far more funding than they would have without that exposure.
But, unfortunately, CNN has turned their charitable programs into a game show, running frequent ads about the contest and encouraging viewers to vote for their favorite hero; the finalists and eventual winner are celebrated at a gala, also marketed and televised by CNN. In my opinion, this approach, while shining a spotlight on the valuable achievements of the heroes, comes across as a distasteful marketing ploy, demeaning their work in the process.
