The first self-help book looks to have contributed to the still-present notion that we are solely responsible for our own self-improvement. Samuel Smiles’ book “Self-Help” teaches its readers that wealth, rank, and education have nothing to do with moral excellence nor do they automatically hand you life on a silver platter. Smiles also glorifies work, and says that working for the sake of working is the ticket to success. This blends together into a book that aims to motivate, but instead likely makes people shame themselves and others. 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
