I either watch the news on the television or go to an online news source. I have never really had the urge or desire to read the newspaper. It has always striked me as boring. I remember all throughout my childhood, waking up, going downstairs, and seeing both of my parents sitting there reading the newspaper. I also remember the first time I tried to read the newspaper because I couldn't manage to flip the pages. It was merely impossible for me. Finally, the stories always seemed horribly long. I probably thought that just because they're written in small font and all the stories are packed together. Basically, I've never been a person to read the newspaper. It's sad that newspapers are suffering. I think I can live with the internet and television as my news source, however. 9
There are multiple benefits associated with getting news from online or the television. I'll start with television. Many people, especially around my age group, prefer television over reading. People can watch television and learn about issues around the world rather than purchasing a newspaper. That brings me to my next point. Instead of paying extra money for a newspaper subscription, people can just watch their television. While watching television, people now have the opportunity to become aware of current international events. 16
Then there are benefits to getting news off the internet. First, newspaper companies are well aware that the internet is taking over their position as the top source for news. In an article I read by Eric Alterman, Out of Print, he says that newspapers have created websites with hopes of gaining profits from the advertisements. So far, those sums are not enough to replace the revenue needed for circulation and print of the newspapers. It's no wonder, though, that people prefer going online for the news. Internet is something that can be accessed nearly everywhere. Many people nowadays lead very busy lives. Therefore, the convenience factor with being able to see news online is huge. Also, news off the internet is free. This country is in a recession. Most people would rather get their news for free than pay for a newspaper subscription. In an article by Michael Liedtke, he states that the cost for the New York Times Sunday paper is now $6. That may not seem like a lot. On the other hand, $6 here and there will add up.
The benefits of using television and the internet for a prime news source outweigh the benefits of a newspaper. Newspapers have been successful for quite some time. With the advances in technology, other sources are taking over. The internet and television are they sources for now. Soon enough, that will probably change, too.
Abby
I too have similar memories of my parents sitting down and reading the newspaper every night, especially Sundays. I think the daily tradition of getting the newspaper is something that is embedded into the baby boomer generation and as that generation continues to grow older, the number of newspaper readers grows smaller. Lets face it, newspapers can not compete with the immediacy and flexibility of the Internet. A news story can be posted online minutes after it happened and can be accessed almost anywhere. This was not previously possible with newspapers.
ReplyDeleteAccording to Stovall on page 169 on the text "The web is like broadcasting and newspapers, but is also something quite different. Although it shares many of the characteristics of other media, it has qualities that make it unique. Those qualities are immediacy, flexibility, permanency, capacity and interactivity."
A few problems do arrise with the internet. Ted Koppel discusses this topic in an interview written several years ago, before we see as much internet news coverage we see today (http://www.jdlasica.com/articles/coloct97.html). He brings up the problem with immediacy of the internet. By news being posted so quickly on the internet, does this give someone enough time to check their facts? Consider their sources? Verify this isn't just a rumor? One must ask themselves this when reading breaking news posted on the internet.
I agree, internet news is here to stay. The benefits and interactivity of the internet is something the newspaper cannot even attempt to match. The newspaper has always been a part of our culture but as time goes on, I think we will start to see an end to the American tradition and a birth to a new one. Like you said, the internet and the television our sources for news now but who knows what will be invented next.
-Kurt Schmidt-