Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Where I Get My News


It is difficult for me to comprehend how certain people are clueless as to what’s going on in the world; the affinity of resources available for gathering news information provides society with plenty of opportunities to educate themselves. I find myself utilizing the Internet as my primary news source. My favorite news websites include BBC News, Politico, Fox News, MSNBC, and the Foundry. Yes, you read that correctly: I enjoy both Fox News and MSNBC. I enjoy using a wide variety of websites to learn about the day’s events because I appreciate opposing opinions. I also fear falling into the trap of confirmation bias. By viewing all sides of a particular issue I am able to keep an open mind and decide for myself what I believe. BBC News also makes my list of frequently visited websites because they offer thorough coverage of world events. As an international studies major I love learning about the big events happening around the world.
            The Internet provides endless amounts of information on everything from what Kim Kardashian wore at the Nugget’s game to the recent bombings in Syria, but it is important to realize that I get a lot of my information from what I hear people saying around me. Just by walking in the halls of Sturm I am able to learn that Professor Smucky grades tests poorly, the weather for Wednesday looks beautiful, and integrating logarithmic functions requires base e. Sometimes I learn things I never wanted to know in the first place. For example, do I really want to know the kissing capabilities of some random stranger? No. But this involuntary eavesdropping also provides me with quick snippets of information that I can further research on my own. I can walk through Sturm, hear a brief conversation regarding today’s shooting in Arizona, and quickly whip out my phone to pursue this emerging news story more.
            Besides the Internet and other people, the radio, TV, and physical newspapers also provide a source for gathering news. Personally, however, I utilize the Internet and other people most frequently to get my news.

1 comment:

  1. I like how you addressed multiple places for getting news. I think that like you, many people look at a bunch of different news sources throughout the day. I also like how you discussed your use of two opposing sites. I think that viewing a news story from both sides allows your views to be broadened. I'm impressed that you look at both views, it makes me want to read from more sources.

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