The Hidden Costs of News: How It Fuels Fear, Polarization, and Social Stress

News media plays a powerful role in shaping public perception and social dynamics. While it claims to inform, it often does more to inflame fears and deepen divisions. Terrorism, for example, relies heavily on media coverage to amplify its impact beyond the physical damage inflicted. Without sensational news broadcasts, terrorist acts lose much of their strategic value, as fear is their true weapon.

Despite terrorism causing fewer deaths than traffic accidents or suicide, news coverage disproportionately inflates its perceived risk, skewing public priorities and policies. This misperception diverts attention from more pressing, everyday dangers.

News also magnifies social comparison stress by spotlighting extremes — the richest celebrities, the most tragic failures — making average people feel inadequate. This leads to increased stress hormones, lowered self-esteem, and physical health consequences.

Interestingly, democracy existed and thrived long before daily news. Political discourse flourished through books, debates, and salons. Quality engagement, not constant exposure to fleeting headlines, sustains informed citizenship.

The news encourages us to form opinions on a vast array of topics, many beyond our expertise. This 'opinion volcano' erupts with superficial views fueled by emotional shortcuts called affect heuristics, which replace thoughtful analysis with instant feelings. The result is polarization and mental clutter.

By stepping away from the news, you contribute to a healthier society less driven by fear and division. Fostering democracy through reflection and meaningful discussion is a more sustainable path.

Sources: Graham Mann, Dean Yeong, Blinkist, Medium book review summaries of 'The Art of Thinking Clearly' by Rolf Dobelli 1 2 3 4