In today's fast-paced world, staying informed about current events has become an essential part of our daily lives. However, as I reflect on my own habits, I've come to a realisation—I might be consuming too much news. In this post, I'll explore the reasons why excessive news intake can be detrimental and why finding a balance is crucial.
Defining the Problem: News and Excess
Let's start by defining our terms. News, for the purposes of this discussion, refers to information published by news outlets like The New York Times or The Wall Street Journal, aimed at documenting and informing us about current events. Excess, in this context, refers to the considerable amount of time I spend reading the news—far more than two hours a day, in fact.
The Time Argument: A Stark Reality
When we break down the numbers, the reality becomes stark. Two hours of daily news consumption equate to 728 hours per month or 30 days in a year. If I assume I have approximately 64 years left to live, that's roughly five years spent solely on catching up with the news. It's a realization that underscores the extent of my obsession.
The Information Relevancy Argument: Quality Over Quantity
One of the drawbacks of news consumption is its lack of filtration and its statistical validation based on a sample size of one (n=1). While news provides a lot of information, it often falls short of revealing the truth. Contrast this with a book, which becomes more valuable over time. A book that's two years old has been tested for relevancy, truthfulness, and entertainment factor by numerous readers. Its worth is proven.
News, on the other hand, is frequently just hours or minutes old. Its long-term relevance remains unproven and unpredictable, making it risky to invest too much time in. It doesn't offer a holistic view of a subject; instead, it provides a single data point.
The Societal Incentive for News Organizations: The Business of Eyeballs
News organizations are driven by a societal incentive—more eyeballs equal more money, whether through subscriptions or advertisements. This incentive encourages them to continuously report on events, further inundating us with information.
Even respected outlets like The Economist, which publishes weekly, are not immune to this pressure for constant updates.
Finding a Balance: Benefits and Considerations
While there are undeniable benefits to staying up to date with current affairs—improved communication with peers and more informed decision-making—it's vital to strike a balance. Operating in a different context window than the rest of society can lead to challenges in decision-making.
In conclusion, my news obsession has led me to reconsider the quantity and quality of information I consume. While it's essential to stay informed, it's equally crucial to find a balance that allows for a healthier relationship with the news. In an age of information overload, mindfulness and moderation are keys to navigating the world of news consumption successfully.