With so many technological advancements and every media application at the reach of our fingertips, breaking news and information is more accessible than ever. This also means cat videos, makeup tutorials and memes are also carried in our back pockets as well. It can be easy to get distracted or to take in a quick 30-second news recap before class, but when the video ends, so does the flow of information.
As opinions editor Laura Schmidt pointed out in her article, “Condensed version rarely better than original,” “Watching a quick video and sharing it to your friends shouldn’t be the end of a subject.”
With the world in a phone, information can be researched thoroughly and opinions can be formed wholeheartedly, supported by facts and not just a high school friend’s two cents.
Researching and following-up on news is especially important during election season. This year is no exception, with extreme antics and outlandish accusations flying from each side of the political spectrum. It can be easy for someone who is ill informed to make decisions based off what he or she reads on a shared facebook post from another friend.
College is the time to meet people from all over the world, who have different backgrounds and experiences. One of the things we all have in common is current events. Keeping on top of them not only makes us seem more involved, but it also provides social ice breakers to connect with peers. The more informed we are, the longer the conversation continues.
As this generation prepares to lead the world, in a sense, we all need a dose of reality, or a glimpse of what the “real world” will be like. Some of us could be important political figures, devoted family men or women or educators of the generations to follow. We will one day be responsible for relaying information to others in some way, so it’s important to start the conversation now by staying informed and on top of what is happening across the world.
That being said, we at Cardinal Points believe news should be an everyday topic. Not just because our livelihoods depend on it, but because it encourages tough talks and change when necessary. Click the news link a friend or family member shared, read more than just the comments of opinionated strangers. If the flow of information and knowledge is so accessible, why not?
