Tabloid journalism is unhelpful. It often purports to present the bare facts, yet emotive language is often used to impose values and opinions upon the reader. An article of only a hundred or so words simply cannot provide an in depth discussion of events, as a longer article can. A reader cannot form detailed and valid opinions with the little information tabloids present. Instead, he or she is forced to take the point of view of the editors. This is a dangerous state-of-affairs.CHOICE
It is argued that tabloid newspapers are necessary because people must be free to choose how much news they read.
This is an empty and dangerous argument.
If a man chooses to live alongside others, he has a duty to be well-informed. He has a duty to form an opinion. He has no right to choose otherwise. This is a crucial aspect of democracy.
Unless a man takes himself off to subsist in a cave, he will interact with other people. He has a duty of care to his neighbours.
Anyone who has the right to vote, has a duty to seek out as much information possible on all the political issues that effect the lives of his countrymen.
He cannot get this from tabloid journalism.
It is also said (in a soft and kind tone of voice) that some folk find the broadsheets too difficult to read. “They do not wish to read longer articles with longer words.”
This is highly patronising.
All men have the ability to follow a detailed, logical argument, and form an opinion on what they have read. This skill is what sets us apart from the lower mammals. They should be encouraged use that skill at every opportunity.
By ignoring these abilities, we are demeaned. By reading the over-simplified news, we surrender our humanity.