Why Do We Tend to Believe Everything We See in the News?

Our tendency to believe everything we see and hear in the news largely stems from a fundamental human behavior known as confirmation bias. This cognitive shortcut allows us to feel comfortable with our existing beliefs and to seek out information that confirms them, rather than engaging in the demanding task of critical thinking and evidence examination. This behavior not only makes us feel secure in our own worldviews but also makes it easier to avoid the uncomfortable task of facing the possibility that we might be wrong.

The Role of Critical Thinking and News Reliability

However, the problem is exacerbated by a general lack of critical thinking skills among many individuals. Instead of questioning the sources of information and pursuing answers, it is far easier to accept what we see and hear without scrutiny. This is particularly evident in the polarized media landscape, where both liberal and conservative News agencies often label their adversaries as “idiots” and refuse to engage in genuine dialogue.

Our leaders and public figures, by engaging in the demonization of their political opponents, fail to encourage constructive and informed public discourse. This fosters an environment where confirmation bias thrives. It’s worth noting that while many people willingly embrace confirmation bias due to its comfort and simplicity, others may be led to believe everything they see and hear merely because they trust the source or are tired of being lied to, even when faced with strong counter-evidence.

The Evolution of News Trustworthiness

Historically, news agencies were trusted institutions that aimed to provide accurate, unbiased information. However, this trust has eroded over time, particularly as people become increasingly disillusioned with the prevalence of misinformation. Despite a decline in viewership, many news outlets continue to exist by clinging to their established credibility, even if that credibility is eroded.

The fact that ratings are still holding at a slow pace suggests that a significant number of people might still place trust in the media, either because the content is indeed true or because it aligns with their pre-existing beliefs. This dynamic underscores the importance of media literacy and the critical thinking skills needed to navigate the complex world of news and information.

Personal Perspective on Truth and Media Trust

While some may blindly accept everything they see and hear, I personally approach news with a critical eye. I believe in verifying information with multiple sources and looking for strong, verifiable evidence before reaching a conclusion. As Meher Baba once said, 'To appreciate truth, approach it through itself, without any game of hide and seek.' This means being open to hearing different perspectives and allowing them to challenge and refine our existing beliefs.

The famous quote, 'Everything real is given and received in silence,' further emphasizes the importance of absorbing and processing truthful information in a quiet and reflective manner. This approach is essential for maintaining a healthy, informed society that is capable of making informed decisions and engaging in meaningful discourse.

Crucially, this reflection must be practiced diligently, as it is the foundation upon which a critical and informed approach to news consumption can be built. By engaging actively with the news and letting it sit with us for a while, we can better discern its validity and foster a more robust understanding of the world around us.