ABSTRACT
American people and our government were moved to action.” How did the media accomplish this? Through pictures. “It is unfortunate,” said Senator Nancy Kassebaum, “it takes these pictures to really bring it home.” “We collectively don’t become aroused to really lend the vigor of focus to an issue,” she said on another occasion, “until pictures are shown on television. And that’s what heightens public awareness. That’s what really drives an outcry.”1 Somalia appeared to be one of those rare occasions when the pictures (especially on television) really did overwhelm the syndrome of compassion fatigue.
