There’s a fairly new term that’s been doing the rounds for the past few weeks: Fake News. The implication is that journalists and the media are fabricating lies to further their political persuasion.

I remember how different things were growing up. The radio played music or ran comedy shows for the better part of every hour, leaving only a few minutes for news, sports, and weather. We had a weekly community newspaper and a daily from the nearby town. The test pattern began and ended on the television day, which was filled mostly with live shows and commercials. Often we are not even aware of events that occurred in another geographic area for several days.

We now have 24-hour television with an almost unlimited number of channels offering breaking news on crimes and events that are happening live around the world. Global newspapers can be found quickly through simple clicks on the Internet. We have become accustomed to having instant access to any information we want or need.

In psychology we learn that opinions are simply thoughts and therefore it is easy to find different opinions on any subject. Both thoughts and opinions can change quickly, especially if new information becomes available.

I think it must be difficult for today’s media considering all the expectations to provide interesting programming around the clock. If a channel’s mandate is to focus on politics, it must feature guests and topics that engage the viewer no matter how little news the politicians generate that day or week. As a result, presenters and guests have to take what they have, repeat it, and “spin” it so people continue to tune in.

Think about what could happen if you and your friends were to sit together for hours talking about politics. After recounting the most recent current event, there may be some “what if…” statements or speculation as to why that occurred or even what might happen next. It won’t be long until “maybe” is cited as fact.

Because the internet is unregulated, anyone can post whatever they want. Thoughts, opinions and not necessarily the truth.

Here are some tips that can help you figure things out:
1. Don’t assume that everything you read, hear or see is accurate.
2. Keep in mind that the demand for continuous news and broadcasts has created a vacuum that must be filled by the media.
3. Let’s go! Most of what is discussed or written is not under your control. You don’t have to listen to or read everything that’s available and you sure don’t have to fix things.
4. Remember to make healthy choices and balance your life instead of just focusing on the news.