Worrisome epidemic of fake news
As an aspiring journalist who constantly discerns conversations between local passersby and fellow social media users about the chaotic fake news pandemic we’re currently faced with, I have continually attempted to relieve myself of major concern that I won’t be able to experience authentic journalism as a professional career someday. I keep telling myself “journalism is not going to waste away; we are always going to need the media to update us on everything going on in the world. How else would we know?”
But are my endeavors to alleviate my restlessness over the chance that the one thing I plan on doing won’t be a possibility anymore reasonable or just flat out crazy? Is this epidemic worth worrying about? Why has it come to this?
We are unable to believe everything the media tells us is true and that is such a scary thought considering the state of mayhem our country is in. It is not fair to those who continue to properly do their job by producing only genuine news while not getting any recognition for following journalistic ethics and standards. How can we praise them if we are always unsure?
We deserve the right to read and hear the latest news without having to worry about whether it’s legitimate or not — it should just be truthful no matter what might come of it. Sincerity and accuracy should always be the top priority.
Fake news is slowly destroying jobs, reliance and trust in the media. The most effective remedy can be found by journalists acknowledging fake news as a current serious issue and pledging to worry the world a little less by releasing only real news.
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Bre Offenberger is a senior at Parkersburg High School, presenting the perspective of one local teenager on issues being discussed across the state and nation.