Some people think news has no connection to people' s lives, so then it is a waste of time to read the news in the newspaper and watch television news programmes. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
It is sometimes argued that news bears little relevance to ordinary people’s daily lives, making it a pointless activity to follow newspapers or television news programmes. I strongly disagree with this view. In my opinion, staying informed is not only useful but often essential for making sound personal and social decisions.
Admittedly, certain news stories – such as celebrity gossip or political disputes in distant countries – may have little direct impact on an individual’s daily routine. If a person spends hours consuming such content, it could indeed be considered unproductive. However, this does not mean all news is irrelevant. Many news reports directly affect people’s lives, including weather forecasts, traffic updates, public health announcements, changes in tax laws, and job market trends. Ignoring these would lead to poor planning and missed opportunities.
Furthermore, news plays a vital role in fostering an informed and engaged citizenry. Understanding local and national events enables people to participate meaningfully in democratic processes, such as voting or community advocacy. News also raises awareness of social issues like climate change, crime patterns, or economic policies, empowering individuals to protect themselves and contribute to solutions. Without access to reliable news, people would be more vulnerable to misinformation and less capable of making responsible choices. Therefore, far from being a waste of time, engaging with quality news is a responsible investment in one’s own life and society.
In conclusion, while some news content may be trivial, the claim that news has no connection to people’s lives is unfounded. On the contrary, news provides practical information and fosters civic awareness. Hence, I believe reading or watching the news is generally a worthwhile use of time.
