Don't Believe It!: How Lies Become News Book

This deserves another review, although Paul said most of what I could say about it.

I first picked up this book in a college library, using my infamous intuition-guided hand. I saw that the book-which I read around 2012, hadn't been chevked out since 2005! And that was the only other person, if I recall correctly. I took the book home, and I'm glad I did. I may not remember the contents themselves as well, but it had a profound effect on how I evaluated news.

This book was like the fun!textbook of News Literacy class. I have watched news with a keener eye since. There are some things the book suggests that I simply am unlikely to do (verify every source in the article by making phone calls) but it made me realize that I DO have the power to find the truth, if I so seek it.

It also helped me balance my views of news. The book is pro-neutral news, disliking any sway. While I have decided that neutral news is ultimately beneficial, I still like news that sways a little to my side. But neutral news should be the anchor to that sway; rather then the rare exception, as it is now.

This book won't only change how you view news stories. It will sway how you think of blogs, scientific articles, radio. It teaches you the difference between story-pepper and acrual facts. National Geographic is one of my favorite magazines, but it's a little bit less credible now; now that I can determine when they're trying to say things to appeal to me rather then facts. A lot of magazines have become...less readable. Which is good. It means I'm focusing on the quality and accuracy of the content given to me, and demanding to get a certain level of it.


I highly recommend this book, especially during these times. I literally think it's important for people to read this book in this day and age. We need its knowledge more then ever.