Consider This

Consider This was a current affairs program that aired on Al Jazeera America from 2013 to 2015. The show was a thoughtful and in-depth exploration of crucial issues of the day, both at home and across the globe. It featured newsmaker interviews, dissections of the most essential news stories, and a thorough analysis of the vital topics about politics, business, culture, and international affairs.

The show was produced by Al Jazeera America, the American news division of the Qatar-based Al Jazeera Media Network. It was a part of Al Jazeera America's original programming when it first launched on August 20, 2013. The intent behind this offering was to offer American audiences fresh, groundbreaking, and approachable coverage of complex global matters, giving a perspective that often differs from standard American news outlets.

Hosted by Antonio Mora, an Emmy award-winning journalist, the show infused every episode with engaging discourse and a profound understanding of the subjects at hand. Mora brought in his extensive journalism experience to host compelling conversations, providing his audience with more profound insights into the issues discussed. He also ensured he broke things down into layman terms so that even anyone, irrespective of his or her knowledge about the topic, could understand the content of the conversation, thus making it universally appealing.

This one-hour show presented nuanced views of unfolding stories worldwide, thereby offering its audience a better understanding of the world's complexities, beyond the norm of the 24-hour news cycle. Many a time, Consider This would delve deeper into stories that made headline news and provided a broader perspective, giving viewers a comprehensive look at the issues that could impact their lives and communities.

A significant and unique aspect of this show was its interactive approach. The viewers played an integral part in shaping its content. The show encouraged its audience to voice their opinions, hence fostering a community around the program. This viewer engagement brought an added depth and breadth to the discussions that greatly enhanced the show's overall impact.

Consider This did not solely rely on the in-studio panels made up of experts or well-known personalities. It also used the impressive global resources of Al Jazeera, offering segments filed by correspondents stationed worldwide. This gave viewers first-hand reports from the scene, adding a layer of authenticity and providing a global perspective often missed by domestic media outlets.

The show had a wide range of guests, from high-ranking officials, skilled professionals, global leaders, and even regular citizens who found themselves thrust into the spotlight. Each guest contributed their expertise or perspectives, which further enriched its content.

In its detailed analysis and exploration of topics, Consider This wasn't afraid to tackle tough questions. It ventured into thought-provoking areas like economic disparity, climate change, global conflicts, human rights, immigration, and the rapidly evolving technological landscape. It brought these conversations to the forefront, shunning the ephemeral news cycle's superficiality.

Despite its hard-hitting investigative and analytical style, the show had an engaging delivery, setting it apart from the often dry and convoluted discourse seen in many news platforms. Antonio Mora's personable and intelligent interview style, combined with his knack for presenting complex topics in a straightforward, relatable way, made the show a hit among audiences seeking substantial discussions on essential issues.

Though it ended after only two years in 2015, Consider This made a significant impact during its run and served as a model of in-depth, substantive, and accessible journalism. It thrived on public participation and global viewpoints while maintaining its primary goal of thorough news and current affairs coverage. The show was an exemplar of journalism that fosters understanding in an increasingly complex world. In essence, Consider This was an attempt to break down barriers, dispel misinformation, and help create a more informed audience.