Because many African cultures have a deep respect for their elders, it seems natural that many African belief systems revere their ancestors as higher-level beings. While not quite gods, ancestors (especially female ancestors) are believed to be able to warn, protect, harm, and influence our day-to-day lives. Aside from that, they are believed to function as intercessors, much like Catholic saints. To serve their ancestors, many Africans sing their praises, tend to their graves, and honour their memory. Read full article here
Research
Improving media literacy could boost trust towards the news, IMPRESS report suggests
The UK media is regulated by the likes of IPSO and Ofcom. The report by press regulator IMPRESS highlights the link between low levels of media literacy and trust in the news. The study found that three quarters of those who did not know if journalists were regulated did not trust the news. It suggests that improving media literacy is one way to stem the erosion of trust, and shows that audiences have an appetite for information on news processes. Stakeholders need to collaborate in order to rebuild trust in the news, and independent media is well placed to do this. Read full article here
Merv
February 1, 2023
