News Needs Context: Are We Asking Why Enough?

Opinion:

and explainers providing context on complex issues. Articles that simply report events often fail to arm the public with the understanding needed to make informed decisions. We need journalism that digs deeper, connects the dots, and presents a clear, unbiased picture of the forces shaping our lives. Shouldn’t news outlets be doing more to explain why things are happening, not just what?

## The Shortcomings of Traditional News

For too long, news has focused on the immediate and sensational. Think of the breathless reports about the latest political scandal or the constant barrage of updates on the stock market. While these events are certainly newsworthy, they often lack the context needed to truly understand their significance. A headline might scream about a new bill passed by the Georgia legislature, but how many reports actually break down the bill’s implications for ordinary citizens, for example, those living near the intersection of North Druid Hills Road and Briarcliff Road in DeKalb County?

This “just the facts” approach leaves the public ill-equipped to form informed opinions. We’re bombarded with information, but starved for understanding. This is especially true when it comes to complex issues like healthcare, climate change, and economic policy. A recent Pew Research Center study [Pew Research Center](https://www.pewresearch.org/journalism/2022/06/14/americans-news-sources-are-more-polarized-than-in-the-past/) found that Americans’ trust in the media is declining, and I believe this is directly related to the perceived lack of depth and objectivity in much of today’s reporting.

## The Power of Explanatory Journalism

Explanatory journalism, on the other hand, goes beyond simply reporting the news. It seeks to provide context, analyze trends, and connect the dots between seemingly disparate events. It aims to answer the “why” questions that traditional news often ignores. Consider, for example, the recent debate over changes to O.C.G.A. Section 34-9-1 regarding workers’ compensation benefits in Georgia. A simple news report might tell you that the law has been amended, but an explanatory piece would delve into the reasons behind the changes, the potential impact on injured workers, and the political forces that shaped the debate.

Good explanatory journalism is not about taking sides or pushing an agenda. It’s about presenting the facts in a clear, unbiased manner and allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions. It requires journalists to be knowledgeable, thorough, and committed to accuracy. It also requires them to be skilled communicators, able to explain complex concepts in a way that is accessible to a general audience. Last year, I had a client who was completely baffled by the intricacies of the Affordable Care Act. It wasn’t until I found an article that clearly explained the law’s key provisions and potential implications that she finally began to understand it. That’s the power of explanatory journalism.

## Addressing the Counterarguments

Some might argue that explanatory journalism is too time-consuming and expensive, especially in today’s fast-paced news environment. They might say that people just want the headlines and that in-depth analysis is a luxury that news organizations can no longer afford. I disagree. While it’s true that explanatory journalism requires more resources than traditional reporting, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. An informed public is essential for a healthy democracy, and explanatory journalism is a vital tool for promoting civic engagement.

Others might contend that explanatory journalism is inherently biased, that it’s impossible to provide context without injecting one’s own opinions and values. While it’s true that all journalism is subject to some degree of human interpretation, the best explanatory journalism strives for objectivity and transparency. It acknowledges different perspectives, presents the evidence fairly, and allows the reader to make up their own mind. I know that some people believe that all news is “fake news” these days, but that’s simply not true. There are still many dedicated journalists who are committed to providing accurate and unbiased information.

## A Call to Action

We need more explanatory journalism, not less. News organizations should prioritize in-depth analysis and contextual reporting over sensationalism and clickbait. They should invest in training their journalists to become experts in their fields and give them the time and resources they need to do their jobs properly. Readers, in turn, should actively seek out news sources that are committed to explanatory journalism and support initiatives that promote fact-based reporting. We all have a role to play in creating a more informed and engaged citizenry.

Here’s what nobody tells you: explanatory journalism often challenges your existing beliefs. It can be uncomfortable to confront new information or to have your assumptions questioned. But that’s precisely why it’s so important. It forces us to think critically, to examine our own biases, and to come to our own conclusions based on the evidence.

Consider this case study. A few years ago, a local news outlet in Atlanta decided to invest in a series of explanatory articles about the city’s affordable housing crisis. They assigned a team of journalists to spend several months researching the issue, interviewing experts, and gathering data. The resulting series, which included interactive maps, data visualizations, and personal stories, had a significant impact on the public debate. According to the news outlet’s internal metrics, website traffic increased by 40% during the series’ run, and social media engagement tripled. More importantly, the series helped to educate the public about the complexities of the affordable housing crisis and to foster a more informed discussion about potential solutions. You can see how Atlanta grapples with housing.

We ran into this exact issue at my previous firm. A client was trying to understand a complex legal ruling, and they were completely lost in the jargon and legal precedents. It wasn’t until we provided them with a clear and concise explanation of the ruling’s key points that they were able to grasp its significance. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of explanatory journalism to empower and inform.

Ultimately, the future of our democracy depends on our ability to access and understand complex issues. Let’s demand more from our news organizations and support the kind of journalism that truly makes a difference.

The time for endless scrolling and knee-jerk reactions is over. Start reading deeply. Choose one complex issue you don’t fully understand and dedicate 30 minutes each day this week to reading explanatory articles from reputable sources. You’ll be surprised how much you learn.