Narcotizing Dysfunction

The term narcotizing dysfunction was first identified in the book "Mass Communication, Popular Taste and Organized Social Action", by Paul F. Lazarsfeld, and Robert K. Merton.

The term refers to a social consequence of mass media. It is termed "dysfunctional" as it assumed it is not in the best interests of a modern complex society to have masses of the society politically apathetic and inert. Lazarsfeld and Merton conducted studies to show that increasing numbers people within our society devote more and more of their time to mass media. It is supposed that although there is more media and more people able to use media to keep on top of the news, that society has become apathetic and shows only superficial concern for the problems of society.

Lazarsfeld and Merton hypothesize that the constant flood of information and news has a narcotizing rather than an energizing effect on the audience. As society spends more and more time devoted to mass media, and especially television, there is equally less amount of time for society to act against the issues identified in the media.

Because the individual is assailed with information of issues and problems and they are knowledgeable about or discuss these issues, they believe they are helping or aiding in the solution. Society has confused knowing about an issue with doing something about it. Society’s conscience is clear as they think they have done something to remediate the issue. However, being informed and concerned is not a replacement for action. Because of the effects of the narcotizing effects of mass media, people believe that doing nothing is good for society. This is why the term is called narcotizing dysfunction.