News coverage shapes what and who matters to us, and how we understand the world around us. It can also influence the way we think about and interpret important national and international events like war and conflict.
While the number of people killed by suicide bombers is a real and significant problem, it is not as significant in the news as the trauma that Palestinians and Israelis have experienced in recent days and months. The difference in media attention to this human story is a reminder of how powerful media can be and how important it is for citizens to keep an eye on the quality of information they consume.
Framing is the creation of a narrative that puts a news event into context and influences how readers or viewers process it. For example, if the news is filled with negative economic stories that focus on job loss, shuttered factories, and overseas outsourcing, a viewer will be primed to have a negative view of the economy — even if actual data tells a different story.
Whether in print, radio or television, most outlets display their journalists’ contact information and email addresses on their website. FAIR believes that respectful, concise and direct communication with the media is an essential part of keeping it accountable to its audience. FAIR’s Media Contacts page has a list of reporters and editors for many major outlets. You can help hold the media accountable for its biases by reaching out to them and letting them know when they get it wrong.
About the Author
