The article raises critical questions about the sustainability of a democratic republic without a well-informed public, which relies on trustworthy news media. It highlights a significant decline in public confidence in U.S. news, with Gallup reporting trust at an all-time low of only 28%. In contrast to the 1970s, when trusted figures like Walter Cronkite provided objective news, today’s media is often criticized for including excessive opinion and political bias, with 70% of Americans perceiving bias as a major issue.
International studies further illustrate the problem, with the U.S. ranking last in media trust at 29%, while countries like Finland achieve 65%. Interestingly, a majority of news consumers (60%) prefer impartial news over content that merely confirms their biases, suggesting a collective desire for objectivity in journalism.
The article notes that some journalists argue against objectivity itself, calling for a focus on truth instead. This sentiment mirrors a historical shift in journalism epitomized by Adolph Ochs, who emphasized impartiality in reporting. To regain public trust, the media must return to these foundational values amid prevalent misinformation and disinformation. The piece advocates for traditional journalism standards as essential to uphold the integrity of information and support democratic processes.
