1. Defining News

According to Merriam-Webster, the news is defined as "a report of recent [previously unknown] events or information." Today, we receive news exceptionally quicker than any preceded era, thanks to our smartphones and the internet. Despite the speed, we still face the challenge of separating factual news from misleading or fictional information that's spread as fact. Although it is a bit scary to question every news outlet, it is not a new occurrence. The death of Belgian financer Alfred Loewenstein is a perfect example of when news outlets fed civilians misinformation. Newspapers published rumors stating that Loewenstein was alive months after his body had been found in the ocean. Not being able to trust media sources is a hassle some obstacle to render when you want to be sure what you are absorbing is truth. I would define news as factual information that has recently been discovered. 

1,165 Breaking News Illustrations & Clip Art - iStock

In our modern world, filled with self-driving cars and HD videos, getting access to recent events is easier than ever. We don't have to wait for Paul Revere to give us the story. Social media is a huge way people quickly learn about what is going on not only nationally, but globally as well. To be clear, social media should not be the only way a person gets their information. Like my mom always said, "You can't trust strangers on the internet." Xizhu Xiao published a very well-written essay, "The Dangers of Blind Trust." In his essay, Xiao explains the correlation between getting news from social media and believing in conspiracy theories. He also talks about the distrust social media can cause, because it is easy to not source information. I think the news is complex and not always easy to absorb all at once. 


As much hate I have been giving social media, I do believe when used responsibly it can be a positive tool to introduce larger ideas at a pocket-sized level. Impact is an Instagram account that makes learning about news uncomplicated and they always cite their posts. 


What is the Potential Impact of Instagram Hiding 'Like' Counts? - [Talking Influence]


News is important, but what is more important is stopping the spread of false or misinformation. Question everything you read and always make sure you do your research before accepting something as fact. News is an awesome thing and without it, we would not be able to keep up with important political, environmental, and health and wellness issues. Just be cautious while you are scouring newspapers, magazines, or the internet because not everyone has the same agenda and not everyone is well informed on every topic. I'll leave you with this final video, watch at your leisure.

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