The Value of Newspapers
Essay No. 01
In ancient times, news traveled from one place to another on horseback, by sea or through carrier pigeons. Only a limited section of the society received news of a great or important occurrence in the world. The invention of the printing press changed all that. When newspapers began to be published, news reached many more people than it used to earlier. Now, we cannot imagine a world without the newspaper at our doorstep every morning.
The value of newspapers is indisputable. They have something for everybody and are enjoyed by the young and old alike. We get news in detail and can also refer to old news items easily provided, of course, we have not already sold our old newspapers to the junk-dealer. These days ‘newspapers- are accompanied by coloured supplements adding to the educational, informative and entertainment value of the newspapers. Through the newspaper we can develop a love for reading and increase our vocabulary. We also become aware of the problems our society and country face and gain knowledge of what is happening around the world.
In spite of the onslaught of television, the Internet, on the modern world, the value of the newspaper has not declined. This is evident from the number of newspapers in circulation and their immense popularity. The written word will always remain the most powerful medium of expression and communication.
Essay No. 02
The Value of Newspapers
Life without newspaper is difficult to imagine. It is the first thing that we look for every morning. It brings us news and views from all corners of the world. Any event or occurrence of importance that takes place is reported by the newspapers.
The newspapers carry information for everyone—businessman, politician, unemployed people, players and kids etc. It widens knowledge, keeps one abreast of all advances made in the fields of science, education, medicine and technology etc. Newspapers are important pillar in a democracy. A free press not only makes people aware of the views and policies of government, but also of their rights. It keeps the government informed of people’s wishes, desires and aspirations. It is a direct channel through which public opinion can be expressed.
Newspapers keep us in constant touch with news, developments, changes, advances and occurrences in each nook and corner of the world and at a very little price to the reader. It’s popularity gives it immense power in moulding public opinion.
Unfortunately most newspapers have vested interests. They are owned by capitalists and have to toe their line. Some newspapers are ‘organs of political party. Their loyalty to the party is greater than sense of fairplay.
It is essential to cultivate faculty in the readers, so that they do not believe every word of news. The newspaper should also have a very strict code of ethics to which it should conscientiously adhere to.
