Saturday, June 1, 2019

YouTube Clueless

I like YouTube-at least the videos that actually teach something.  To me YouTube (the sites I watch) is like watching PBS online.  I actually learn something.

However...many of the ‘so-called’ informational sites are exercises in self-gratification and promotion.

Too often when I watch YouTube channels that purport to review comic books, toys, etc., they are little more than ‘look what I have’ or ‘I got this and you don’t’ exercises in ego-stroking. 

For example-comic book collector sites.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched individuals ‘report’ on ‘hot’ vintage comic books and never delve into the past or significance of said books.

Often the reviews cover recent releases that are reportedly hot and worth money.

Here’s a tip:  if the book states on its cover or is promoted by its publishers as collectible and valuable-it’s not.

Truthfully, most variant cover and recently published comic books (there are a few exceptions) will wind up not being worth the money they originally sold for.

Think about it.  Why would a comic book be worth more simply because it has a different cover?  Shouldn’t the value of the book be because of its scarcity (the ENTIRE book’s scarcity), significant event in the book or a first appearance?

As an example: the first appearances of Deadpool and Cable.  When these books initially came out they were printed in the hundreds of thousands.  The same goes for the first appearance of Venom.

There is no way these books should be worth the money demanded by sellers.  Talk about a rip off!

Have you ever listened to some of these so-called ‘comic book experts’? 
Do they not do their research!  Honestly, some of the stuff they say.  I absolutely cringe.

The same goes for many of the toy review sites.  Sure they show off the toys but very few (and I mean VERY few) sites actually take the time to really examine a toy.  I’m talking about commenting on the packaging, construction of the toy, details, color, articulation and the like.

Most are ‘Gosh, golly, this toy is cool!’

I want some meat and bones when it comes to reviews-not fluff and filler.

Some YouTube sites are little more than men acting likes boys exploring rides, attractions and travel locations-again with little content.

Many offer the opportunity for ‘travel reviewers’ to talk to the camera and feed their own egos.

Frankly I’m getting sick of the whole mess.

There are some legitimate and informative sites on YouTube.  Especially when they pertain to home, auto or other repairs or product quality or history, science or educational subjects.

Unfortunately YouTube, like so many social media sites, is being hijacked by individuals who have nothing better to do than post stupid, egocentric or absolutely worthless videos.

Is it any wonder that people’s attention spans are minimal, reading has all but disappeared and self-gratification is at an all-time high?

YouTube is lauded as a great communication vehicle.  The trouble is there are a bunch of idiots behind the wheel!

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