Is a radio talk show host safe or dangerous?

Answer 1

It depends on the host. First, if you are asking whether radio talk show hosts are safe to listen to, they generally are. The most successful hosts have huge audiences, and they are certainly popular with their fans, who trust what the host tells them; it should be noted, however, that the average listener to Talk Shows (whether sports talk, political talk, religious talk, or shows where the host gives advice) tends to be over fifty years old, and politically conservative. (There are many exceptions-- I am simply referring to the average listener.) Another factor about whether talk shows are worth listening to depends on what type of programs you prefer. Some hosts have a friendly and courteous style, and they have interesting guests from many different backgrounds. Other hosts are more angry and sarcastic; they criticize anyone who disagrees, and they only have guests who share the host's views. Some hosts offer a program that is educational, which tries to teach you something new. Others offer one that is emotional, stirring up listeners and reinforcing the outrage they may already feel. And that gets to the dangerous part-- some talk show hosts are very controversial. They make outrageous claims, they focus on the things they think are wrong in society and they blame certain groups of people for those problems. It may not be dangerous to listen to such programs, but you may end up being misinformed or given information that is totally untrue.