Subscribing to newspapers and magazines seems to be a habitual action of many
people. Being the most reliable sources of information, these traditional media forms
keep readers updated about the latest happenings around the globe. Needless to say,
they could be good ways to learn about a different nation. However, they are no
longer the best way. Due to the striking power of web-based technology, more
alternatives are available in the modern world.
Admittedly, the broad coverage of news reports and commentary helps people
learn much about any country. To illustrate, stories printed in newspapers and
magazines are typically associated with almost every major aspect of a nation,
including political events, society, business, sports, entertainment and public figures.
Besides, editorial pages are often attached, which normally includes columns for the
editors or the writer’s opinions, the criticism and debates of critics, or even readers’
letters. Such content provides further analysis of current issues and enables readers
to obtain more profound knowledge about the country. For example, reading
articles in The Washington Post, The New York Times or Time Magazine helps foreign
readers form a clearer picture about the United states. Therefore, in order to know
about current situations in a foreign country, one convenient way is to browse through
its major newspapers or magazines.
However, with the prevalence of new mediums, paper-based newspapers and
magazines are gradually losing subscribers. In effect, their strongest competitor is the
Internet. Enormous sources of information can be found online with ease, which allows
the masses to learn about a different country far more efficiently and economically.
Combined with challenges from other traditional media like TV and radio, modern
readers are becoming less enthusiastic about buying newspapers and magazines every
day. For example, we cannot deny their limitations: the lack of sound and visual effects
prevent paper media forms from vividly communicating their stories. The process of
publishing is also complicated, involving drafting, collecting, proofreading, printing,
distributing, etc. Thus, possible delays might be induced.
In addition, there are many other ways to learn about a foreign country. A good
command of knowledge can never do without diversified useful methods. Therefore,
it is better to make full use of every opportunity at hand. After all, “Rome was not
built in a day.” Any field of knowledge needs to be accumulated through multiple channels
and by various means. Knowing about a country is no exception. As a matter of fact,
visiting museums, traveling, reading books about different cultures and values, and
seeing movies are all favorable choices that further people’s understanding about
other nations.
In sum, in a world led by globalization it has become more and more important for
people to learn about other countries. Reading newspapers and magazines is an
effective and familiar way. At the same time, we should also make full use of other
useful sources to meet that end. Without doubt, the most profound and comprehensive
knowledge ought to be gained through various channels.