Since the beginning of the news industry, people have always doubted the facts and the stories. There has always been some sort of hesitation on if people can trust what they’re reading or hearing. Even though these doubts have always been around, the distrust with the media grew tremendously after former President Donald Trump started using the term “Fake News.” Thus creating a bigger issue than before.
A December 2016 survey by the Pew Research Center suggests that 23 percent of U.S. adults have shared fake news, knowingly or unknowingly, with friends and others. This should go without saying, but this is obviously a big issue. Not only in the sense that false information is getting spread all over the world over every single topic possible, but also because this is creating issues for future journalists everywhere. There is a major sense of distrust from the people.
Now, it’s very easy to see why people feel this way. That being said, it’s also very easy for people to do their research and figure out what is factual and what isn’t. Unfortunately, many people are lazy and don’t put forth the effort to get the truth. And because people are lazy and do work, actual fake news sources know they can get away with their lies. Because these consumers are still there. Due to this, we’re left with the fake news issue and dilemma.
It’s actually quite easy for people to get factual news. They need to take the time and do their research. Even if they don’t want to do that, there are other ways to get factual information. They need to find sources that are known to be trustworthy sources. Sources like the New York Times, The Washington Post, and most importantly, the Associated Press.
These news organizations are known to be some of the most unbiased sources out there. That’s why I always recommend that consumers check with these sources first when it comes to national news. Other sources that are fairly trustworthy are small, local stations. For example, the St. Joseph News-Press is a relatively trustworthy source for news because they aren’t being influenced by political leanings and whatnot.
My biggest fear about this time in America is that because so many people distrust the media, that upcoming journalists are questioning not only if they should join the field, but also because this leaves the question of what’s the point? What’s the point in working hard to be a factual, trustworthy source when at the end of the day, people are going to be questioning your motive and your integrity? It’s frustrating and it kills the drive for many.
Overall, this is a very dangerous topic because even though there is factual evidence to back up that there is ACTUAL fake news, people will believe whatever they want rather than taking the time to do the research. It’s upsetting and frustrating, but all we can do is hope for the best and educate the best that we can.
