About a week ago, I found a video on YouTube regarding the nature of Islam and the mindset of Muslims in the Middle East. I was not surprised to see a few experts with books published on the matter and media officials such as Bill Maher and Sam Harris speaking on the topic.
I was surprised to see actor Ben Affleck there, however. He spoke with a great deal of emotion, rarely stopping during his tirades to hear the opinions of others on the panel. I didn’t necessarily agree or disagree with his ideas; however, his presence and the way he presented his ideas confused me. These celebrities should be able to share their opinions, but I am skeptical as to whether they should be invited to share their opinions on such a wide-reaching platform.
Most people seek a profession with the intention of gaining knowledge relevant to a specific area of expertise. Doctors study biology and anatomy. Politicians study political science. Actors study performing arts. Mixing the roles of different professions doesn’t usually benefit the public. For example, I wouldn’t want a hairdresser to diagnose my brain cancer. So why are celebrities who voice opinions regarding politics taken so seriously, especially when they are placed next to experts in the field?
I'll never understand why celebrities feel the need to share their political opinions? I cannot tell you how much it means nothing...
— wicka (@mariawicka) October 9, 2015
Clint Eastwood, a retired western actor, supported John McCain in 2008 by campaigning for him. In 2012, he continued to support the Republican party as well as Mitt Romney’s campaign by speaking at the Republican Convention. Similarly, actors such as Eva Longoria spoke at the Democratic Convention in 2012 to show their support for Barack Obama’s campaign.
The Bill of Rights protects their right to share their opinions, and I believe they do have every right to do so. However, it is a misuse of power to use one’s name recognition from a career unrelated to politics to support politicians; they don’t have the credentials.
This indirect transfer of power is not the only questionable component of this trend. Their intention in donating so much time and money to these politicians could also be questioned.
Voicing their opinion rarely benefits their careers as actors. Some actors’ careers are even harmed by this. Dating back to the '70s, John Wayne was shunned by Hollywood professionals for his conservative beliefs. Similarly, actress Stacey Dash received backlash from fans over Twitter for voicing support for Mitt Romney in 2012.
It is admirable that these celebrities want to change the world, but engaging in politics seems to be an ineffective way to do so. There are exceptions to this ideology.
I hate when celebrities I like get involved in politics. They make it so hard for me to keep liking them. Why Quentin? Why????
— John Sempa (@Stars_N_Bars2) October 29, 2015
Although I don’t believe that celebrities are accomplishing much by stating their opinions, I do believe that it is important to see issues from various perspectives, including those of performers. There are celebrities who inherited this mindset and took matters into their own hands by pursuing political positions themselves.
Celebrities such as President Gerald Ford and former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger educated themselves and sought higher positions in the government. It is important to note that prior experience is needed. Ford attended law school and gained military experience prior to his presidency, steps that were necessary to his success in the industry.
what it looks like to me when celebrities get involved in politics pic.twitter.com/RBJ88iRDij
— reem (@rokhattab) October 27, 2015
Other celebrities are using their time and money to support a cause. This is a more effective use of power. For example, Lady Gaga started her Born This Way foundation to “foster a more accepting society.” Similarly, the Michael J. Fox foundation was founded to find a cure for Parkinson’s Disease.
These celebrities are drawing from their own experiences, delving into things they understand in an attempt to better the world.
Celebrities have their place in the world, as most people do. Although it is perfectly acceptable for them to share their opinion, they tend to deviate too far from their area of expertise.
Reach the columnist at ghirneis@asu.edu or follow @ghhirneise1 on Twitter.
Editor’s note: The opinions presented in this column are the author’s and do not imply any endorsement from The State Press or its editors.
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