Even if a news item about Covid-19 is entirely accurate, it still has the power to mislead readers about the virus. That’s because journalists often use “real people” to “humanize” their stories. For instance, a story might feature a family member of a person who died from the … [Read more...] about How to be a wise news consumer during the Covid-19 pandemic
News
Tips for staying informed, not overwhelmed, while reading the news
If you find yourself reading the news more often during times of crisis, it’s because news sources have actually become part of our flight or fight instinct. They provide us with the information we need to make decisions about how to ensure our own livelihood, but how do you stay … [Read more...] about Tips for staying informed, not overwhelmed, while reading the news
Mocking the news is hard work at satirical newspaper The Onion
Carolyn Steel | August 2009 issue Onion writer Todd Hanson, in a lighter moment. Photograph: Carol R. Hartsell How do humor writers deal with the constant pressure of trying to be funny on deadline? "Mocking each other and having dangerous levels of psychiatric pathologies … [Read more...] about Mocking the news is hard work at satirical newspaper The Onion
Stop the presses!
News gives people a false sense of wisdom. Knowing what goes on in the world does not make anyone more knowledgeable about what really matters. In fact, suggests Ode editor Marco Visscher, less news is a prerequisite for greater wisdom. How about tuning in to our own lives, … [Read more...] about Stop the presses!