Why Do You Believe Everything the Media Tells You?

As a retired structural engineer and general contractor, and a former nonprofit operator in Kenya, I've seen firsthand the impact of media on people and their beliefs. In this article, I'll explore why we often take everything the media says as the truth, and what steps we can take to ensure we receive accurate and reliable information.

The Origins of Trust

Throughout our lives, we are conditioned to trust and follow the directions of authority figures, such as teachers and bosses. From an early age, we are taught to believe that the information given by these figures is accurate and truthful. This habit continues into adulthood, where we consume vast amounts of information through the internet and television.

The Media's Role in Shaping Opinions

In today's information age, the media serves as a significant force in shaping public opinion. Media organizations, both traditional and modern, play a crucial role in influencing our views and behaviors. From political talk shows to social media platforms, the media constantly provides us with information and perspectives that can steer our thoughts and actions.

The Impact of Media on Society

The media has been described as a driving force behind controlling the masses. This control is achieved through a variety of methods, including presenting biased narratives, spreading misinformation, and selectively highlighting certain stories while downplaying others. The ultimate goal is often to sway public opinion in favor of specific agendas or political outcomes.

The Reliability of Mainstream Media

Despite the potential for bias and misinformation, many argue that mainstream media organizations, such as The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal, CNN, MSNBC, NPR, the Associated Press (AP), Reuters, BBC, Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), ProPublica, Al Jazeera, Salon, and Slate, are highly reliable sources of information. These organizations have a long history of providing accurate and detailed reporting. Many of their reporters are seasoned professionals who conduct thorough fact-checking and verification to ensure the accuracy of their work.

Steps to Ensure Reliable Information

While mainstream media can be a valuable source of information, it's important to approach the news critically. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you receive accurate and reliable information:

Verify information from multiple sources. Stay informed about the biases and editorial stances of different media outlets. Look for trustworthy sources that focus on evidence-based reporting. Question information that seems overly sensational or lacks supporting evidence. Use fact-checking websites and tools to verify the accuracy of information.

Conclusion

The media has a significant impact on our beliefs and behaviors. While it's important to trust and follow the advice of authority figures, we should also question the information we receive and seek out reliable sources. By being vigilant and critical consumers of information, we can ensure that we make informed decisions and live with greater peace and happiness.