The book, The Image: A Guide to Pseudo-Events in America, by Daniel J. Boorstien describes what can be called pseudo events. Pseudo events refers to fake or fabricated events that are told or experienced in a public light or broadcasted to a large audience. Pseudo events are typically planned and well thought out, they are not natural or an accurate representation of real life. Boorstien argues that Americans are living in a false reality and they do not know what “real” news or media is. In addition, he alludes to the fact that Americans might be more focused on pseudo events than their actual reality. Boorstien discusses Americans and their desire to travel abroad. He explains that the travel experience has been completely transformed. By this, he means that travelers fill their so-called experience with pseudo events. People become more focused on how their experience should be, rather than how their experience truly is. This portion of the book specifically stood out to me because I feel as though this really applies to me and my experience with studying and traveling abroad. In regards to the media side of learning in Paris, I think reading and engaging in everything is crucial. This is how you grow and learn in new places. Though being critical and not immediately believing everything you read is the key to avoiding false media. In regards to the personal side of studying abroad, it is common to believe that your trip should look or be a certain way. This takes away the authenticity of the experience. It is really important to me that I have an experience that fulfills me, not an experience that is appealing to others.
