Often called “hard news”, news is information about events that have occurred. It can be provided through a variety of different media. Among the most popular forms are print, broadcast and online.
During the 20th century, television and radio became important ways of transmitting news. However, the print medium was the first to experience a major advance. Newspapers, for instance, began publishing articles in print form in the early 1600s. The print media would then be typed and then transmitted via wire services.
In 1940, Robert E. Park published an article in the American Journal of Sociology that examined how the press corrupts public perceptions. He argued that the press seeks out stories that would cause a “dueling cover story,” in which two competing versions of the same story are presented.
In the 21st century, the Internet is beginning to play a similar role. The rise of social networks has created new opportunities for automated news gathering. This means that companies can respond more quickly to accusations and challenges.
One example of this is the case of Al Jazeera, a TV news network that is owned by the government of Qatar. The network has garnered a following as an alternative to the Western media. It also reaches millions of viewers worldwide.
The media also has become a tool for advocacy organizations to pitch stories to reporters. In many cases, these stories are designed to make a strong impact on the reader. They may include violence or local content, and be timely or relevant to the audience.