Why Are News Features So Similar? Debunking the Central Source Myth

The Absence of a Central Source

It's a common misconception that there exists a central source or provider of news. In reality, the media landscape is highly decentralized. Various news organizations, whether they be local TV stations, newspapers, or online publications, independently gather and report on stories, resulting in a wide array of content.

What Constitutes a "Feature" Story?

The term "feature" in the context of news refers to a story that is not of immediate importance or urgency. It often includes human-interest stories, personal profiles, or other light pieces aimed at engaging readers on a more emotional level. Examples include a profile of a long-time business owner planning to retire or a story about a child with remarkable math skills.

Contrasts with Hard News Stories

In contrast, a "hard" news story typically involves breaking events, such as a bank robbery, election results, or meetings between leaders. These events are urgent and require immediate attention. Examples might include a volcanic eruption in Hawaii or a significant political event like the outcome of a national election.

No Central Hub for News

Despite the widespread belief in a central news source, there is no overarching entity that dictates the news content for all media outlets. Instead, networks often provide stories to their affiliates, particularly for local broadcasts. Additionally, services like the Associated Press supply news and, in some cases, even provide video content to member stations. CNN, for instance, may allow its affiliates to use certain stories, but ultimately, these are localized efforts rather than a single, unified source.

Media Consolidation and Standardization

A significant reason why news outlets seem to cover the same topics is due to media consolidation. With fewer media giants controlling a larger portion of the market, there is a tendency for stories to become more homogenized. This is especially true for breaking news events, where rapid and uniform coverage is necessary.

Adaptation of Press Releases

Another contributing factor to the similarity in news features is the widespread use of press releases. News outlets often adapt these releases to create content for their newspapers and websites. The same press release can be sent to multiple outlets, which is cost-effective compared to having individual journalists find and report on every story. This practice can result in a flurry of similar stories across different media platforms, leading to the perception that all news is the same.

Local Variations in Features

While major events tend to be covered uniformly across the board, local features often vary more. In a particular town or city, you might find several TV stations covering the same local event, such as a city council meeting or a community celebration. This localized focus allows each station to add its own unique perspective and spin, making the content more interesting and relevant to the local audience.

Conclusion

While it's easy to perceive all news as being the same due to their uniform coverage of major events, the reality is much more complex. The absence of a central source, the contrast between feature and hard news stories, and the practices of using press releases all contribute to the perception of similarity. Understanding these factors can help clarify why news outlets may seem to be so similar and why local angles play a significant role in the news landscape.