News is information about current events. It has been communicated since ancient times by word of mouth, written letters, printed newspapers, telegraphs, radio and television, and now the internet. The news can be about anything from war, government, politics, education, business, the environment, technology, sport, and celebrity gossip.
The value of news depends on how important the event or development is, and how it affects people’s daily lives. The most valuable news stories are those that provide insight into how the world works, rather than simply reporting facts or a timeline of events.
To understand how different perspectives can change our perception of the same event, it’s important to read a variety of sources. For example, if you want to get a better sense of what an issue might look like from a different cultural background, try reading a newspaper from that country or checking out some online resources that specialize in the topic.
Aside from reading a diverse range of news sources, it’s also helpful to find and follow opinionated sources as well. This can be done by following a blog, signing up for email alerts from organizations that focus on the subject, or by reading articles in the opinion sections of newspapers and magazines.
In addition to helping you understand the big picture, learning about different perspectives can help you become more critical of what you read and hear. Check out some of the research and resources below to learn how to evaluate your sources, avoid bias, and develop a healthy news diet.