Sharksploitation

Sharksploitation is a term used to describe the exploitation of sharks by media, particularly in film and television. This phenomenon has been prevalent since the mid-20th century, with the release of popular films such as Jaws and its sequels. Sharksploitation often involves the portrayal of sharks as terrifying, man-eating creatures, which has contributed to widespread fear and misunderstanding of these marine animals.

History

The term "sharksploitation" was coined in the late 20th century, following the release of Jaws in 1975. This film, directed by Steven Spielberg, was a major box office success and sparked a surge in shark-related media. Other notable sharksploitation films include Deep Blue Sea, The Meg, and the Sharknado series.

Impact on Public Perception

Sharksploitation has significantly influenced public perception of sharks. Many people now view sharks as dangerous predators, despite the fact that shark attacks on humans are relatively rare. This fear and misunderstanding has led to negative consequences for shark populations, as it often results in support for shark culling practices.

Criticism

Sharksploitation has been criticized by marine biologists and conservationists for its inaccurate portrayal of sharks. Critics argue that these portrayals contribute to the public's fear and misunderstanding of sharks, which can hinder conservation efforts. Some filmmakers and television producers have responded to this criticism by attempting to portray sharks in a more accurate and positive light.

See Also

• Shark culling
• Shark conservation
• Shark attack
• Shark tourism