Negativity and the Media

The news is too negative! This is a complaint people in the news business sometimes hear. Any honest discussion of this question would necessitate first defining what is negative news and commentary. Does your definition of negative include broadcasting or writing an opposing view? I hope not! Ideas or plans that cannot withstand criticism probably were weak already and deserve criticism. Is it negative to expose mismanagement or corruption in the public sector? I hope not! The revelation of almost every public scandal begins with a brave journalist. Is it negative to focus on the mayhem of our culture; like accidents, murders, and rapes? I hope not! Would you want to move to a neighborhood or a city infested with crime? The news, as bad as it can be, arms you and your family with life saving information. So, just what is negative news? Is our local media negative? Some say it is. Go to the local news section of this web site and scan the history of the news stories. Do the same with the local newspaper. You may be surprised to learn that the local news is actually quite positive.