"There's media bias in favor of drama. Most of us are inclined to believe that government officials, doctors and the media are making an effort to tell us the truth. Actually, just like all marketers, they tell us a story."
I agree with Seth - to a point. He argues that we get most of our news today via online media, but the reader may infer (at least I do) that the more traditional media lean toward the dramatic. I believe there is indeed some degree of that in TV news, which is struggling to maintain the attention of their audience. Resorting to a dramatic approach is indeed cheesy ("There was a big 5-car pileup out on the interstate today. We'll tell you how many people were killed right after the commercial break."), but when you're in an uphill struggle against the growing behemoth that is the online media, you can't help but resort to creativity and opt for the easy (How many times within the last year has your local newscast led with the weather?).
I've spoken my bit about the future of newspapers. I can't help but think that we're at a crossroads in the lives of media, both old and new. I grew up with the old and worked in it for many years. In some respects, it's sad to see it fade away. But everything changes and we all adjust. I ran into someone a couple of days ago who is an editor on her high school paper and intends to major in journalism in college. I didn't dissuade her; in fact, I was excited for her. But I made sure that my unsolicited message of advice for her was clear: "Online! That's where the action is and where it's gonna be."
How do you see the future of newspapers and broadcast journalism? I welcome your thoughts.
