Winnipeg Free Press > Our Communities > The Herald > Neighbourhood Forum > Single source outlook can be harmful

Neighbourhood Forum

Canstar Community News - ONLINE EDITION

Single source outlook can be harmful

By: Ron Buffie

Posted: 07/5/2012 1:28 AM | Comments: 0

Talking to friends, reading newspapers, watching TV, and listening to the radio prior to and in the  aftermath of the last election was very revealing.


It became perfectly clear that many people are unaware of what is going on in this misunderstood country of ours. Unfortunately, far too many people rely on one radio station, one news channel, and one newspaper  to explain what is happening. And many don’t even do that.


To understand what is going on we have to read more than one paper, watch more than one TV channel, and listen to more than one radio station.


Each one has its own agenda and slant on things. It is only by getting a cross section of opinions that we are able to formulate some sort of idea, nebulous as it may, of what is going on.


I know reading several newspapers may seem intimidating but it isn’t. We have to learn how to read the papers. As we skim through the paper we find that there are entire sections which are of no interest to us. As well, we can see by the headline that we already know or are not interested in that particular topic and flip to the next page.


Unfortunately we can’t do the same with radio and TV as we are locked in and have to watch or listen to the entire program, which often are reruns that we have already seen.


That’s why I rarely follow radio and televised news unless there is something new of great importance occurring. I’m forced to watch the whole program and often it does not provide coverage of things which I’m interested in.


In discussing world affairs or the political situation with someone it’s usually apparent when that person has been exposed to only one newspaper or TV station. That’s a shame.


Ron Buffie is a Transcona-based writer.


Neighbourhood Forum is a readers’ column. If you live in The Herald area and would like to contribute to this column, contact jim.timlick@canstarnews.com.

You can comment on most stories on winnipegfreepress.com. You can also agree or disagree with other comments. All you need to do is register and/or login and you can join the conversation and give your feedback.

Have Your Say

New to commenting? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.

The Winnipeg Free Press does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comment, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. These terms were revised effective April 16, 2010.

letters

Make text: Larger | Smaller

Shop Local

Poll

Do you think the city should sell John Blumberg Golf Course?

View Results

Must Have Menus