We want to stay on top of what is going on in the world, but at the same time, we hear about disinformation and growing distrust, while more journalists seem to become threatened or even killed, while doing their job. Are we facing reality or just indulging in drama? How should we look at media and the news in particular?

Dare to analyze what you’re reading (watching or listening to). Here are some questions you can ask:

Who is behind the article? Who is the writer and what is he or she associated with?

Who is he or she in turn working for? Which values, such as political affiliation or religious views, is this outlet associated with and wants to support and promote?

What is the purpose of this article, or broadcast, or post?

Who is their desired audience?

What is it that I’m supposed to do, think and feel after seeing this post? Are my personal view, knowledge and experiences in alignment with this? What do I agree with and what not?

Do I need to know this? Do I need to learn more, or should I read (watch, listen to) something different?

What we take in, is what we digest, also in terms of impressions. When I grew up, I was told that watching certain movies could give me nightmares, just as some videogames can produce more violence by the viewer. So, what is it that I’d like to feel? Remember to read (watch, listen to) that too!