In more recent years, the Opinion section of newspapers has developed a bad reputation, due to critics claiming that it causes readers to confuse editorial writing with actual news reporting.
However, the main contributor of that confusion most likely stems from news television channels that broadcast editorial shows without clearly differentiating those hosts from the news reporters. For example, Fox News’ Sean Hannity as well as CNN’s Don Lemon host editorial shows. Yet, in contrast to newspapers, television broadcasts do not clearly define the categories. At least in most newspaper publications they have a straightforward ‘OPINION’ tab that makes it much easier to know what you’re reading.
Today, because of the ‘Fake News’ era we live in, many readers and viewers only want pure reporting, which is understandable considering how much misinformation is around. However, when it comes to certain news that is more difficult to digest, the opinion section is extremely valuable because it tells the reader what the implications are in regards to the news. Opinion journalism isn’t here to spread lies, but quite the opposite. Its purpose is to decipher the truth and provide a perspective on the information around us.
In any form of journalism, the writer should still be as objective as possible, fact-checking every detail. This is still true with editorial writing – background, data, and putting everything in context is crucial to backing up the argument and points that the writer is making. In contrast to regular news reporting, Opinion journalism tells the reader WHY an issue or topic matters, how it should be handled, and often even offers suggestions on what the reader can do about it.
Because of the fact that the general public is so accustomed to consuming the latest news report, then moving on to the next thing that happens, opinion columns help give us a reality check on how critical these stories actually are. If it weren’t for writers offering their opinions about what is going on in the world it would be more difficult for the general public to stop and pay attention. The columns give readers a chance to look at the extent of the reports, the facts, and put it all together, whether the reader agrees or disagrees with the author.
In particular, complex societal issues that run deep and require extensive research are perfect for Opinion articles because many people are looking to writers for them to break it all down, lay out the evidence, but put it together in a way that they can understand. It is especially important to interpret and decode news regarding legislation, and letting readers know how it could impact people.
Another instance when the Opinion section is necessary is after tragic situations such as the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. When a few people out of a particular ethnic or religious group commit a crime or an act of terrorism, and the news reports on those events are endless, it is important for the Opinion writers to bring everything back into perspective, reminding the public that those few individuals do not represent those groups of people as a whole.
Overall, opinion pieces help attract attention to the issues and is a way to get the public involved. Regardless of the kinds of careers individuals have, they need to be informed about things within their country that could possibly impact their lives. Just as early journalists often called ‘muckrakers’ began raising awareness about child labor, working conditions, and unregulated corporations during the progressive era, investigative reporting as well as Opinion and Advocacy journalism today is very much needed when it comes to exposing the injustices of our time.
While the writer does want others to see and understand their point of view, the object is never to get someone to completely agree. Instead, it is mainly to get readers THINKING about those topics. After all, everything happens first with a single thought, idea, or impression. If thought-provoking enough, one seemingly simple opinion piece could change the world!
Graphic by Micheal Yelton
