Where Do We Get Our Information? A Call to Question Bias and Ownership in Media

Where Do We Get Our Information? A Call to Question Bias and Ownership in Media

In today’s world, it’s harder than ever to know where to turn for the truth. News and social media are flooded with information—but so much of it comes with a slant, a purpose, and often, an agenda. This leaves us wondering: how much of what we read and watch is genuinely reliable, and how much is just noise shaped by corporate or political interests?

A Few Questions Worth Asking About Our Sources:

1. Who Owns This Outlet? The ownership behind media outlets can have a huge impact on what stories they prioritize or avoid. Corporations often own multiple channels, influencing narratives on both sides of an issue to serve their interests.

2. What Is the Goal of This Source? News organizations, influencers, and bloggers each have unique motives. Ask yourself: Are they aiming to inform? To entertain? To persuade? Some may use emotional language, exaggeration, or shocking images to boost clicks and shares rather than simply presenting the facts.

3. Does This Source Cite Evidence? Reliable news sources often provide evidence, data, and multiple viewpoints. Misinformation thrives on unsupported claims or unverified sources, and it can often be dressed up to look legitimate.

4. What Voices Are Missing? Not every perspective gets represented in mainstream media. When seeking the full picture, consider looking for voices from different backgrounds, especially those often marginalized in larger narratives.

Why It Matters to Think Critically Now More Than Ever

Misinformation can stoke fear, confusion, and division. It impacts how we see each other and shapes our communities, laws, and rights. When we spread unchecked information, we risk becoming part of the problem rather than the solution.

What Can We Do?

Diversify Sources: Follow a range of outlets with different perspectives.

Pause Before Sharing: Take a moment to verify before passing along information.

Engage in Conversation: When friends or family share questionable news, ask them where it came from. Sometimes, open dialogue can be a way to encourage more thoughtful media habits.

Our goal isn’t to dismiss or discredit any one source entirely. Instead, let’s stay curious, ask questions, and remember that finding the truth often requires looking past the headlines.