Polarization of News Consumption and Narrative Warfare

Image Credit: Jhefferson Santos at Pexels

By Lilian H. Hill

 

The concepts of polarized news consumption, narrative warfare, and information literacy are interconnected in today’s complex media and geopolitical environment. News consumption in modern democratic societies is increasingly polarized, with individuals gravitating toward sources that affirm their existing political beliefs. This behavior fosters ideological echo chambers where alternative viewpoints are seldom encountered, reinforcing confirmation bias and intensifying societal divisions. The proliferation of digital media has amplified this trend. Algorithms on platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and Google promote engagement by recommending content similar to users' prior behavior, creating what Pariser (2011) describes as “filter bubbles.” Within these insulated media environments, divergent perspectives are not only underrepresented but often distorted or dismissed.

 

This fragmentation undermines a shared public reality—a critical foundation for democratic discourse. Lewandowsky et al. (2017) argue that such environments contribute to a "post-truth" era, in which emotional resonance and identity-aligned narratives prevail over factual accuracy. Misinformation thrives under these conditions, particularly when it reinforces group identities or vilifies out-groups. In these polarized spaces, falsehoods are often not only believed but actively defended, while fact-checking is dismissed as partisan, hindering consensus on crucial issues such as climate change, public health, and election integrity.

 

Partisan media often rely on emotionally and morally charged framing that casts societal issues in stark, binary terms. This framing appeals to deeply held values and group affiliations, prompting individuals to process information through the lens of loyalty rather than reasoned evaluation. As Fricker (2007) explains, this dynamic can lead to epistemic injustice, where individuals are denied fair access to knowledge or their viewpoints are discredited due to identity-based bias. What this emotionally charged representation does not accomplish is to represent the complexity of human life. As a result, public trust in media institutions erodes, and journalism is increasingly perceived not as a truth-seeking endeavor but as a tool for ideological influence.

 

Narrative warfare involves the strategic deployment of stories, symbols, and messages by both state and non-state actors to sway public opinion, legitimize authority, and manipulate public perception. These narratives are disseminated across various platforms, including news outlets, social media, entertainment, and even memes, and often capitalize on existing cultural tensions and ideological rifts (Woolley & Howard, 2019; Miskimmon et al., 2013). In this context, information literacy is a vital civic defense, enabling individuals to assess sources critically, recognize propaganda, and understand the motivations behind messaging campaigns. It also fosters resilience against disinformation, ideologically loaded narratives, and emotionally manipulative content (Mihailidis & Viotty, 2017).

 

Without adequate information literacy, individuals are more vulnerable to misleading stories that provoke fear, anger, or resentment. For instance, during political campaigns or armed conflicts, strategic narratives may be used to legitimize aggression, suppress opposition, or delegitimize dissenting voices (Rid, 2020). These efforts are further magnified by digital algorithms that prioritize sensational content to drive engagement. Consequently, information literacy must extend to digital environments, encompassing an understanding of how platforms function, how algorithms shape content visibility, and how personal data is used for targeted messaging (Gorwa, 2019).

 

Relationship Between Polarization and Narrative Warfare

Polarization and narrative warfare have a reciprocal relationship. In polarized contexts, where institutional trust is low, audiences are more likely to accept narratives that reinforce their worldview and portray others in a negative light. Simultaneously, polarization fosters information disorder, as individuals actively seek out confirmatory content and dismiss contradictory information. Narrative warfare exploits societal divides, using emotionally charged, ideologically targeted messaging to deepen mistrust and entrench ideological silos (Miskimmon et al., 2013; Wardle & Derakhshan, 2017). Social media amplifies this cycle, enabling rapid dissemination of emotionally engaging narratives that further fracture public discourse (Tucker et al., 2018; Rid, 2020).

 

Counteracting Polarization and Narrative Warfare

To address the rising threat of disinformation and digital manipulation, interventions must span education, platform accountability, and public policy. Media and information literacy (MIL) is a frontline defense; studies confirm that MIL helps users identify misinformation, understand algorithmic bias, and develop civic agency (Siegel-Stechler, 2025). Educators and policymakers are increasingly advocating for the integration of MIL in curricula to build long-term societal resilience. In parallel, platforms must take responsibility for transparency in content moderation and algorithmic recommendation systems, a point echoed in regulatory efforts like the EU Digital Services Act (DSA), which mandates transparency reporting for very large platforms (European Commission, 2024).

 

Narrative warfare—the strategic deployment of emotionally resonant stories to distort public understanding—requires not only fact-checking but counter-narratives that engage audiences meaningfully. Bateman and Jackson (2024) argue that effective counter-disinformation strategies combine fact-based messaging with emotionally grounded storytelling tailored to community values. Researchers also warn that algorithmic amplification contributes to political polarization and narrative fragmentation, and advocate for friction-based design (e.g., content warnings, speed bumps) to slow the viral spread of falsehoods. At the policy level, multi-stakeholder approaches, combining regulation, civil society initiatives, and platform cooperation, are essential for defending democratic discourse and reducing the systemic incentives that sustain disinformation ecosystems.

 

Conclusion
In an era marked by deep political divides and the weaponization of information, building robust information literacy is not just an individual skill but a democratic imperative. The interplay between polarization and narrative warfare highlights the urgent need to cultivate critical thinking, media literacy, and intercultural dialogue. Critical thinking enables meaningful participation in public discourse, equips people to resist manipulative narratives, and supports a healthier, more informed democratic culture. Empowering individuals to navigate complex information ecosystems, recognize manipulative storytelling, and engage constructively with diverse perspectives is crucial for preserving democratic values, fostering social cohesion, and maintaining an informed public sphere.

 

References

Bateman, J., & Jackson, D. (2024, January 31). "Countering Disinformation Effectively: An Evidence-Based Policy Guide." Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2024/01/countering-disinformation-effectively-an-evidence-based-policy-guide?lang=en

Fricker, M. (2007). Epistemic injustice: Power and the ethics of knowing. Oxford University Press.

Euopean Commission (2024, July 25. The Digital Services Act package. https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/digital-services-act-package

Gorwa, R. (2019). The platform governance triangle: Conceptualizing the informal regulation of online content. Internet Policy Review, 8(2).

Hobbs, R. (2021). Mind over media: Propaganda education for a digital age. W. W. Norton.

Lewandowsky, S., Ecker, U. K. H., & Cook, J. (2017). Beyond misinformation: Understanding and coping with the "post-truth" era. Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition, 6(4), 353–369.

Mihailidis, P., & Viotty, S. (2017). Spreadable spectacle in digital culture: Civic expression, fake news, and the role of media literacies in "post-fact" society. American Behavioral Scientist, 61(4), 441–454.

Miskimmon, A., O’Loughlin, B., & Roselle, L. (2013). Strategic narratives: Communication power and the new world order. Routledge.

Pariser, E. (2011). The filter bubble: What the internet is hiding from you. Penguin Press.

Rid, T. (2020). Active measures: The secret history of disinformation and political warfare. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

Siegel-Stechler, K., Hilton, K., & Medina, A. (2025, May 12). Youth Rely on Digital Platforms and Need Media Literacy. Center for Media Information for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement. Tufts University. https://circle.tufts.edu/latest-research/youth-rely-digital-platforms-need-media-literacy-access-political-information

Tucker, J. A., Guess, A., Barbera, P., Vaccari, C., Siegel, A., Sanovich, S., ... & Nyhan, B. (2018). Social media, political polarization, and political disinformation: A review of the scientific literature. Hewlett Foundation.

 Wardle, C., & Derakhshan, H. (2017). Information disorder: Toward an interdisciplinary framework for research and policy making. Council of Europe.

 

Who Consumes News on Social Media and Why?

 

By Lilian H. Hill

 

 

Social media has become a key source of news for Americans, with half of U.S. adults reporting that they sometimes rely on it for news, according to a 2023 Pew Research Center survey (Pew Research Center, 2024). A significant majority of U.S. adults (86%) report getting news from a smartphone, computer, or tablet at least occasionally, with 57% saying they do so frequently.

 

People who consume news on social media cite several benefits, including its convenience, rapid updates, and ability to engage with others through discussions and shared content (Pew Research Center, 2024). However, many also express concerns about news accuracy, quality, and political bias on these platforms. Notably, the percentage of users considering misinformation the most significant drawback has risen from 31% to 40% over the past five years.

 

Benefits and Constraints of Social Media News

Getting news through social media offers both advantages and drawbacks. One of its most significant benefits is convenience and accessibility, as it provides instant access to breaking news from anywhere, keeping users informed in real time. Additionally, social media exposes individuals to diverse perspectives, allowing them to access news from independent journalists, global outlets, and citizen reporters. The ability to receive real-time updates ensures that users stay informed as events unfold. Social media also fosters engagement and interactivity, enabling people to comment, share, and discuss news with others, thereby promoting public discourse. Personalization is another advantage, as algorithms curate news based on user preferences, making content more relevant to individual interests. Moreover, social media platforms offer cost-free access to news, bypassing paywalls common on many traditional news websites.

 

However, there are significant downsides to relying on social media for news. One primary concern is the prevalence of misinformation and fake news, as these platforms often host misleading information, deepfakes, and propaganda. Bias and echo chambers also pose a risk, as algorithms reinforce users' beliefs by prioritizing content that aligns with their views, limiting exposure to diverse perspectives. Unlike traditional journalism, many social media sources lack rigorous fact-checking, increasing the risk of spreading inaccurate information. Sensationalism and clickbait are also typical, as platforms prioritize engagement, often amplifying emotionally charged or exaggerated content over factual reporting. Privacy and data concerns are another issue, with social media companies collecting vast amounts of personal data that can be used for targeted advertising or political manipulation. Additionally, the short-form nature of social media news consumption can lead to shallow understanding, as users are less likely to analyze complex issues deeply.

 

In a study, Thorson and Battocchio (2023) explored how young adults in the U.S. shape and manage their personal media environments across digital platforms and the impact of these practices on their news consumption. Based on 50 in-depth interviews with individuals aged 18-34, along with an analysis of their most-used social media platforms, the study highlights the various efforts young users invest in constructing and curating their online presence across both “public” and “private” spaces, with particular focus on the architectural strategies that minimize their exposure to news content.

 

Generational Use of Social Media for News

Different generations consume news from various sources, reflecting technological shifts, media consumption habits, and trust in traditional versus digital platforms. Recent studies by the American Press Institute indicate that while Gen Z and Millennials still engage with local and national news from traditional sources, they are more likely to frequently access news and information through social media (Media Insight Group, 2022). Gen Z consumes news daily on social platforms at a higher rate than older Millennials, with 74% doing so compared to 68% of older Millennials. According to the Pew Research Center (2024), the percentage of Americans who regularly get news from television has remained steady at 33%, while reliance on radio and print publications continues to decline. In 2024, only 26% of U.S. adults reported often or sometimes getting their news in print.

 

However, this does not mean these groups rely exclusively on social media for complete or accurate news coverage (Castle Group, 2025; Pew Research Center, 2024). Many consumers follow news outlets and journalists on social platforms, clicking through to full articles when they appear in their feeds. Some people use a free monthly article allowance or continue researching a story beyond the app where they first encountered it. To maintain audience engagement, news organizations have adapted their approach to social media, moving beyond simple headline previews or article snippets to offer more dynamic and interactive content.

 

Here’s a breakdown of where different age groups typically obtain their news (Pew Research Center, 2024):

 

Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, primarily rely on television for news, favoring broadcast and cable networks such as CNN, Fox News, and NBC. While they still engage with print newspapers, this habit is declining. They also turn to radio sources like NPR and talk radio for updates and are gradually accessing digital news websites, though at lower rates than younger generations.

 

Generation X, born between 1965 and 1980, splits its news consumption between television and online sources, including news websites and apps. While they engage with social media for news, they tend to be more skeptical than younger generations. Many continue to listen to radio news, especially during commutes, and some still read print newspapers, though digital consumption is on the rise.

 

Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, prefer online news sources, including digital newspapers, news apps, and streaming news content. They are heavy users of social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, and Reddit for news updates. Increasingly, they rely on podcasts and YouTube for in-depth analysis and alternative viewpoints. Compared to older generations, they are less likely to watch traditional television news or read print newspapers.

 

Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, primarily consumes news via social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), and Snapchat. They favor short-form video content from influencers, independent journalists, and content creators. Many engage with news aggregators like Apple News and Google News, while traditional television news and print newspapers play a minimal role in their media consumption. Instead, they prefer digital and interactive content that aligns with their fast-paced and visually engaging media habits.

 

Each generation's news consumption habits reflect broader shifts in media technology and trust in different sources. While traditional news outlets still hold influence, digital and social media platforms continue to attract younger audiences. It is too soon to predict social media behavior of Generation Alpha, born between 2010 and 2024, and Generation Beta, born after 2025.

 

Mitigating Problems of Social Media News Consumption

Yaraghi (2019) commented that it is naive to view social media as purely neutral content-sharing platforms without any responsibility, but thinks it is unreasonable to hold them to the same editorial standards as traditional news media. Mitigating the problems associated with social media news content requires a multi-pronged approach involving media literacy, platform accountability, and user responsibility. Improving media literacy is essential, as people need to develop critical thinking skills to evaluate sources, detect bias, and distinguish between credible journalism and misinformation. Encouraging a fact-checking culture by verifying information through reliable sources like Snopes, PolitiFact, or Reuters Fact Check can help reduce the spread of false narratives. Additionally, users should be aware of manipulative tactics such as deepfakes, clickbait headlines, and out-of-context images that contribute to misinformation.

 

Social media platforms must also take responsibility by ensuring greater algorithm transparency, disclosing how they prioritize news content, and implementing measures to reduce the spread of misinformation. Stronger content moderation, powered by both AI and human reviewers, is necessary to flag and remove misleading content while still protecting free speech. Yaraghi (2019) stated that while social media companies can moderate or restrict content on their platforms, they cannot fully control how ideas are shared online or disseminated offline. Clear labeling and warnings for unverified or misleading content, like how X and Facebook sometimes provide context to viral posts, can further help users make informed decisions.

 

Encouraging responsible journalism is another crucial step. Supporting trusted news outlets and prioritizing fact-based reporting over sensationalized headlines can help counteract misinformation. Journalists should also uphold ethical reporting standards by rigorously verifying sources and avoiding the spread of misleading information.

 

Users themselves play a vital role in combating misinformation. Taking a moment to verify news before sharing, especially if it provokes a strong emotional reaction, can prevent the spread of false content. Diversifying news sources rather than relying on a single perspective helps reduce the risk of being trapped in an echo chamber. Additionally, users should actively report misleading content to social media platforms to ensure that misinformation does not gain traction.

 

By combining education, regulation, and individual responsibility, we can foster a more informed and resilient digital society that mitigates the negative impact of social media news content.

 

 

References

 

Castle Group (2025, January 31). How social media, Gen Z, and millennials are changing the news media landscape. https://www.thecastlegrp.com/how-social-media-gen-z-and-millennials-are-changing-the-news-media-landscape/

Media Insight Project (2022, August 22). The news consumption habits of 16- to 40-year-olds. American Press Institute. https://americanpressinstitute.org/the-news-consumption-habits-of-16-to-40-year-olds/

Pew Research Center (2024, September 17). News Platform Fact Sheet. https://www.pewresearch.org/journalism/fact-sheet/news-platform-fact-sheet/

Thorson, K., & Battocchio, A. F. (2023). “I use social media as an escape from all that” Personal platform architecture and the labor of avoiding news. Digital Journalism, 12(5), 613–636. https://doi.org/10.1080/21670811.2023.2244993

Yaraghi, N. (2019, April 9). How should social media platforms combat misinformation and hate speech? Brookings Institute. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/how-should-social-media-platforms-combat-misinformation-and-hate-speech/

When Misinformation Causes Harm

 

Image Credit: Pexels

By Lilian H. Hill

 

We’re learning again what we always known: Words have consequences.”

President Biden, March 19, 2021

The phrase "words have consequences" reflects a widely understood concept about the power of language and its impact on people and situations. While the quote may not have a single origin, its essence is found in numerous historical and philosophical texts and contemporary discussions. The phrase is particularly relevant in misinformation, as it highlights the real-world impact of false or misleading information on individuals and society. Misinformation, when spread through various channels, especially social media, news outlets, and word of mouth, can cause harm in several ways, mainly affecting people's beliefs, actions, and decisions. 

We are seeing the results of misinformation in the ongoing recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, both of which made landfall in Florida. On September 26, Hurricane Helene landed in the Big Bend region of Florida, near Perry, with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph. Hurricane Milton made landfall with wind speeds of 120 mph on the west coast of the U.S. state of Florida, less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene. This blog post was written two months after the hurricane events and old news in the information ecosystem. It is daily life for the people who are dealing with the aftermath of the hurricanes.

Following major weather disasters, misinformation frequently surges. With Hurricane Helene impacting several battleground states, the spread of false claims has intensified. Some of the most extreme conspiracy theories circulating online suggest that politicians manipulated the weather to target Republican regions and that the government aims to seize land in North Carolina for lithium mining (Tarrant, 2024).

Misinformation during hurricane recovery has severe and far-reaching consequences, as it complicates efforts to provide accurate information, distribute resources, and ensure the safety of affected communities. For example, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, had to address the rumor that the $750.00 Serious Needs Assistance would be the only assistance hurricane victims would receive. In reality, Serious Needs Assistance is dispersed for “upfront, flexible payment for essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies, medication and other serious disaster-related needs” (para. 1).  

Following that, “FEMA may provide money and other services to help you recover from losses caused by a presidentially declared disaster, such as damage to your home, car, and other personal items.” FEMA can provide funds for temporary housing, repair or replacement of owner-occupied homes for primary residences, temporary housing, and hazard mitigation assistance, depending on individual needs. Rumors about limited assistance can prevent people from applying for the help they need. The problem is so pervasive that FEMA maintains a Hurricane Rumors Response webpage in 12 languages that is updated with each new hurricane landfall.

Some keyways in which misinformation impacts hurricane recovery include:

 

1. Public Safety Risks

Misinformation about evacuation orders, shelter availability, or road conditions can put lives at risk. For example, if false information spreads that certain areas are safe to return to when they are not, people might expose themselves to dangerous flooding, structural instability, or other hazards. Similarly, misleading updates about ongoing storms can leave people unprepared for secondary dangers like storm surges or flash floods.

 

2. Strain on Emergency Services

False claims about the availability of emergency services or relief supplies can overwhelm first responders. People must be more informed about where they can receive aid or assistance to avoid flooding the wrong locations or resources, further straining already limited services. In extreme cases, this can divert attention from critical rescue efforts or supply distribution, delaying recovery for those in real need.

 

3. Confusion Around Relief Resources

Misinformation about accessing federal or state disaster relief can hinder recovery efforts. False claims about the steps needed to apply for financial assistance (e.g., FEMA aid), insurance processes, or donation sites may lead to frustration and slow the distribution of funds and resources. Additionally, scammers often take advantage of these situations, spreading fake donation links or relief fund drives, which siphon resources away from legitimate efforts.

 

4. Economic and Community Impact

Post-hurricane recovery efforts often rely on accurate information about damaged infrastructure, business reopening, and rebuilding efforts. Misinformation about these topics can lead to prolonged economic hardship for communities, as people may hesitate to return or invest in rebuilding due to fear or uncertainty caused by false information. Additionally, misinformation about insurance claims or rebuilding permits can delay recovery for homeowners and businesses.

 

5. Health and Well-being

During recovery, misinformation can affect the physical and mental health of individuals. For example, false information about contaminated water sources, unapproved medications, or unverified health risks can cause unnecessary fear or lead people to take inappropriate actions that worsen their situation. In some cases, rumors or unverified claims about medical conditions (such as exposure to mold or diseases post-hurricane) can prevent people from seeking proper medical care.

In summary, misinformation during hurricane recovery can exacerbate existing challenges, delay crucial response efforts, and even result in loss of life. It underscores the importance of accurate communication and the responsible sharing of information during disaster response.

 

References

Biden, J. (2021, March 19). Remarks by President Biden at Emory University. White House Briefing. Retrieved https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2021/03/19/remarks-by-president-biden-at-emory-university/

FEMA (2024, October 8). Addressing Hurricane Helene Rumors and Scams. Retrieved https://www.fema.gov/blog/addressing-hurricane-helene-rumors-and-scams

 Tarrant, R. (2024, October 7). Misinformation has surged following Hurricane Helene. Here's a fact check. CBS News. Retrieved https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hurricane-helene-fact-check-misinformation-conspiracy-theories/

 

Do you live in a news desert?

By Lilian H. Hill

You may have heard of food deserts, areas where residents lack reliable access to healthy foods. However, the term news desert may need to be clarified.

A news desert is a rural or urban community that lacks access to local news coverage. News deserts are areas without a reliable local news source that offers significant and trustworthy reporting on important issues like health, government, and the environment. This absence leaves residents unaware of regional events, hindering their ability to participate fully as informed citizens. Questions about the actions of their local government, the candidates they should support, and the use of their tax dollars still need to be answered in these communities (Sullivan, 2022).

News deserts can occur for several reasons, including the closure of local newspapers, reductions in the workforce of existing media outlets, or the shift of media consumption to national or global platforms that do not cover local issues in depth (Abernathy, 2020; American Journalism Project, 2024). Abernathy (2020) wrote, "Many of the country’s 6,700 surviving papers have become ‘ghost newspapers’ – mere shells of their former selves, with greatly diminished newsrooms and readership. The loss of both journalists and circulation speaks to the declining influence of local newspapers, and raises questions about their long-term financial viability in a digital era” (p. 9). Research indicates that 70 million Americans currently reside in areas lacking sufficient local news to support grassroots democracy (Sullivan, 2022).

Importance of Local News

Local news is crucial for a healthy democracy; it helps communities understand the stakes in local elections, encourages political engagement through voting, contacting officials, and running for office, reduces political polarization, and holds public officials accountable (American Journalism Project, 2024).

Local news keeps residents informed about what is happening in their community, enabling them to make educated decisions about local issues, elections, and policies. It fosters community by highlighting local events, traditions, and stories that unite people. Local news can strengthen community bonds and provide a platform for local voices and perspectives.

Local news encourages civic engagement by informing residents about local meetings, public hearings, and other opportunities to participate in community governance. It can motivate people to participate in regional issues and volunteer for community projects. Local journalism highlights cultural and social issues within the community, promoting understanding and dialogue among diverse groups. It can shine a light on marginalized or underserved populations and their concerns.

Helping citizens understand how local government functions and how it impacts their daily lives is a function of local news. Local journalism holds local government officials, businesses, and other institutions accountable by investigating and reporting on their actions. It promotes transparency and exposes corruption, mismanagement, or other issues that might go unnoticed. A robust local news ecosystem can support local economies by promoting local businesses, events, and services. It can attract and retain residents who value being well-informed about their community.

Local news outlets often enjoy higher levels of trust than national or international media because they are closer to their audience. Trustworthy local news can counter misinformation and provide a reliable source of information for residents. A well-informed public is essential for the functioning of a healthy democracy. Local news gives citizens the information they need to participate in democratic processes. It ensures that local elections are fair and that elected officials are responsive to their constituents.

Consequences of News Deserts

Research indicates that the decline of local news hurts our democracy, contributing to polarization, decreased voter turnout, and reduced government accountability (Abernathy, 2000). The absence of local news coverage can have significant impacts on communities, such as:

 

·       Reduced Civic Engagement: Local news is crucial in informing citizens about local government, elections, and community issues. Without it, people may be less informed and engaged in civic activities.

 

·       Lack of Accountability: Local journalism often holds local government and institutions accountable. Without local media scrutiny, there may be less transparency and more opportunities for corruption or mismanagement.

 

·       Community Disconnect: Local news helps build community by highlighting local events, issues, and stories. With it, there may be a greater sense of connection among residents.

Prevalence of News Deserts

According to Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism and Media (2023), there are 204 counties in the U.S. without a local news outlet. Out of the 3,143 counties, more than half—1,766—have either no local news source or only one remaining, typically a weekly newspaper. The decline of local newspapers accelerated in 2023, averaging 2.5 closures per week, up from two per week the previous year. Over 130 newspapers closed or merged this past year. Since 2005, the U.S. has lost nearly 2,900 newspapers and will lose one-third of its total by 2024, leaving about 6,000, primarily weeklies (Northwestern Medill, 2023). Due to demographics and economics, Medill’s modeling indicates that 228 counties are at an elevated risk of becoming news deserts within the next five years.

 

Most of these "Watch List" counties are in high-poverty areas in the South and Midwest, often serving communities with significant African American, Hispanic, and Native American populations. In news deserts, the median income is lower, the number of people with college degrees is lower, and the poverty rate is higher (Abernathy, 2020). This is like the distribution of food deserts (Khatoon, 2024).

 

You can track news agencies that exist in your county through a service of the University of North Carolina’s Hussman School of Journalism and Media (2024). Their website features a searchable map allowing you to select your state and county. That search reveals the number of newspapers available in your county, alongside the county's median income. Below that, statistics for your state are provided, including population demographics, economic status, median income, and state and federal voting turnout and results.

 

Ways to Remedy News Deserts

News deserts, with limited access to local news and information, are a growing concern. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some ways to remedy news deserts:

 

Nonprofit news organizations can help provide quality journalism without the pressure of generating profit. These organizations can receive funding from donations, grants, and partnerships.

Local community foundations and philanthropists can be encouraged to invest in local journalism, which can sustain and expand news coverage. Grant programs specifically aimed at supporting local news initiatives can be effective.

Public and Community Radio/TV can fill gaps in local news coverage. These outlets often provide in-depth local reporting and can serve as a vital source of information. Local businesses benefit by advertising with local news outlets.

University and Student Journalism can create opportunities for students to cover local news. This can provide practical experience for students while benefiting the community with additional news coverage.

Digital News Startups can offer flexible and cost-effective ways to deliver local news. These startups can leverage social media, newsletters, and other digital tools to reach audiences. Employing technology and data journalism to produce and distribute local news can make local news more efficient to deliver. Mobile apps, social media platforms, and online forums can be used to disseminate news and engage with the community.

Government and Policy Support can advocate for policies that support local journalism, such as tax incentives for local news organizations and public funding for journalism initiatives. They can also ensure that public notices and other essential information are accessible through local news outlets.

Community Engagement and Citizen Journalism promotes community engagement, and encouraging citizen journalism can help fill reporting gaps. Training programs for community members to report on local issues can empower residents and increase news coverage.

References

Abernathy, P. M. (2020). News deserts and ghost newspapers: Will local news survive? https://www.usnewsdeserts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/2020_News_Deserts_and_Ghost_Newspapers.pdf

American Journalism Project (2024). The state of local news and why it matters. https://www.theajp.org/news-insights/the-state-of-local-news-and-why-it-matters/

Khatoon, H. (2023, November 1). What are food deserts and why do they exist? https://sentientmedia.org/food-desert/#:~:text=Food%20deserts%20exist%20across%20the,high%20density%20of%20food%20deserts.

Northwestern Medill (2023). More than half of U.S. counties have no access or very limited access to local news. https://www.medill.northwestern.edu/news/2023/more-than-half-of-us-counties-have-no-access-or-very-limited-access-to-local-news.html

Sullivan, M. (2022, June 29). Every week, two more newspapers close — and ‘news deserts’ grow larger. Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/media/2022/06/29/news-deserts-newspapers-democracy?

UNC School of Journalism and Media (2024). Do you live in a news desert? https://www.usnewsdeserts.com?

News Literacy and Its Components

 

Image Credit: Evangeline Shaw, Unsplash

As part of our continuing discussion of different types of literacy, this blog post addresses News Literacy in honor of the 5th Annual National News Literacy Week, January 22 – 26. 

 

News literacy is critically analyzing and evaluating news sources, stories, and information. It involves developing the skills and knowledge necessary to be an informed news consumer. News literacy goes beyond simply being able to access information; it emphasizes the capacity to assess the credibility, reliability, and relevance of news content. Ashley (2022) provides the following definition:

 

News literacy is the critical evaluation of information content as well as the contexts where it is produced and consumed. We can think of news literacy as the set of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that a person brings to their personal consumption of information and to their understanding of the structure of the news media landscape.

 

 

Ashley’s book News Literacy and Democracy (2020) also links news literacy with democracy. He writes, “Democracy is ultimately about citizen participation in the organization of society. We are governed by elected representatives, and because representative government requires an informed citizenry, we need news that gives us an accurate picture of our environment. But the morass of information out in the world today poses a real threat to our ability to govern our societies” (p. 4). Ashley explains that we each have the power to be selective about the information we expose ourselves to, and this ability can shape our perceptions of reality, which in turn influences our behaviors and attitudes. Some people choose to tune out altogether. Indeed, the Digital News Report by Reuter indicates that social networks have become a primary news source for 18-24-year-olds (Eddy, 2022). The report further claims that only 26% of Americans trust news generally.

 

We have traveled far from the days of trusted news anchors such as Walter Cronkite, a CBS news anchor from 1962 to 1981, who was known as the most trusted man in America in the 1960s and 1970s. Instead of a few trusted sources of information, digital media have saturated daily life, making it difficult to distinguish legitimate information from biased, fake, and falsified news. Hornick (2024), writing for the News Literacy Center at Stony Brook University, indicates that: “New technologies to create and share information make it easy to create content that only appears authoritative and then to spread it virally. The conflict between speed and accuracy has been exacerbated by Digital Age demands for delivering information as fast as possible, but accelerating that process increases the chance it will be wrong” (para. 4). While nearly everyone can create and publish media with a laptop or smartphone, the responsibility to be accurate, truthful, and unbiased is not shared. The News Literacy Center provides news literacy lessons for college/university students, community groups, and K-12 students. The website references 18 other organizations concerned about news sites' quality and trustworthiness, including the Media Literacy Clearinghouse and the American Press Institute. 

 

PBS Learning Media for Teachers houses several collections of lessons on news and media literacy. The lessons include videos, blog articles, student handouts, lesson plans, and tip sheets to help students identify, analyze, and investigate the news and information they get from online sources. These lessons are aimed at K-12 students. PBS Learning Media for Teachers and the News Literacy Center link news literacy and democracy.

 

Components of News Literacy

 

1.     Critical Thinking

News literacy encourages individuals to approach information critically. This includes questioning the source, understanding the context, and evaluating the evidence from news stories.

 

2.     Source Evaluation

Understanding where news comes from is crucial. News literacy involves assessing the credibility and reliability of news sources. Differentiating between reputable journalistic sources and unreliable sources is a fundamental skill.

 

3.     Fact-Checking

Fact-checking is an integral part of news literacy. Individuals are encouraged to verify the accuracy of claims and information presented in news stories before accepting them as accurate.

 

4.     Media Bias Awareness

Recognizing and understanding media bias is essential. News literacy helps individuals identify potential biases in news reporting and how they might influence the presentation of information.

 

5.     Contextual Awareness

News stories often need to be understood within their broader context. News literacy involves considering the historical, cultural, and social context in which events are reported.

 

6.     Digital Literacy

With the rise of digital media and online information, news literacy includes digital literacy skills. This involves understanding how information spreads on social media, recognizing online misinformation, and being aware of the potential for manipulation.

 

7.     Diversity of Sources

News literacy emphasizes the importance of seeking information from diverse sources. Exposure to various perspectives helps individuals develop a more comprehensive understanding of issues.

 

8.     Ethical Considerations

News literacy includes an awareness of journalistic ethics. This involves understanding the responsibilities of journalists, respecting the rights of individuals featured in news stories, and recognizing the importance of unbiased reporting.

 

9.     Engagement and Participation

News literacy encourages active engagement with news and current events. This can include participating in discussions, sharing responsibly sourced information, and being an informed citizen.

 

Promoting news literacy is essential in a world where misinformation and disinformation can spread rapidly. By fostering these skills, individuals are better equipped to navigate the complex media landscape and make informed decisions about the information they encounter.

 

References

Ashley, S. (2020). New Literacy and Democracy. Available online https://library.oapen.org/bitstream/id/2ed9be72-d915-4e0f-bc8e-7977d9ae4d56/9780429863073.pdf

Eddy, K. (2022, June 15). The changing news habits and attitudes of younger audiences. Reuter Digital News Report. Retrieved https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/digital-news-report/2022/young-audiences-news-media

Hornick, R. (2024). Why News Literacy Matters: A NEW LITERACY FOR CIVIL SOCIETY IN THE 21st CENTURY. Retrieved https://digitalresource.center/why-news-literacy-matters