Do the Right Thing: Television’s Fault in Reagan’s Farewell Address?

Ronald Reagan’s 1989 farewell address, a poignant moment in American history, offered reflections on his presidency and warnings for the future. One key concern, often overlooked, centered on the perceived decline in patriotic values and the role of television in this shift. While praising the resurgence of national pride during his tenure, Reagan expressed anxiety about its fragility and the need for “informed patriotism.” This raises the question: Did Reagan believe television was failing to “do the right thing” in fostering American values?

Television’s Shifting Landscape in the 1980s

Reagan contrasted the America of his youth with the America of the approaching 1990s. He reminisced about a time when patriotism was ingrained in families, neighborhoods, schools, and even popular culture. Movies and television, he argued, once implicitly championed American values and reinforced the nation’s unique identity. However, he observed a change in the cultural landscape, suggesting that “well-grounded patriotism is no longer the style” for those shaping popular culture.

This shift coincided with significant changes in the television industry. The rise of cable television fragmented audiences and introduced a wider range of programming, often challenging traditional narratives. While Reagan didn’t explicitly blame television for the perceived erosion of values, his remarks implied a concern that television’s evolving content was no longer effectively transmitting core American principles to younger generations.

The Call for “Informed Patriotism”

Reagan’s solution wasn’t censorship but education. He advocated for “informed patriotism,” rooted in historical understanding and civic engagement. He stressed the importance of teaching children about America’s founding principles, its historical figures, and its significant moments. This, he believed, was crucial to preserving the American spirit.

Implicit in his call for informed patriotism was a critique of television’s potential to distract from or even distort historical narratives. He urged a return to teaching history based on “what’s important,” not “what’s in fashion,” suggesting a disconnect between popular culture’s portrayal of the past and its actual significance. While not directly accusing television of wrongdoing, he highlighted a need for alternative sources of historical knowledge and a more conscious effort to cultivate patriotic values.

Reagan’s Legacy and the Continuing Debate

Reagan’s farewell address sparked a national conversation about American identity, values, and the role of media in shaping them. His concern about the transmission of patriotic values continues to resonate in contemporary debates surrounding media influence and cultural shifts. While television has dramatically changed since the 1980s, the question of its responsibility in shaping societal values remains relevant.

Reagan’s call for “informed patriotism” reminds us that a strong nation requires not only pride but also a deep understanding of its history and principles. Whether television is adequately fulfilling its role in fostering this understanding remains a subject of ongoing debate. However, Reagan’s farewell address serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of critical engagement with media and the need for proactive efforts to cultivate informed citizenship.