The Slow Death of Local News and Its Impact on Critical Thinking

The Slow Death of Local News and Its Impact on Critical Thinking

Author: Gwendolyn Dolske, PhD & Rudy Salo | Philosophy & Education Podcast April 15, 2026 Duration: 41:14

What happens when local journalism disappears, and how does it affect democracy, critical thinking, and informed citizens?

Is local journalism disappearing, and what does that mean for democracy?

In this episode of Good Is In The Details, we speak with journalist Liz Farmer about the decline of local press, the economics of modern media, and why journalism is essential for an informed public.

As news consumption increasingly shifts toward national outlets, social media, and algorithm-driven content, many communities are losing access to local reporting. But what happens when citizens no longer have reliable information about their own cities, policies, and elected officials?

We explore:

  • The "death of local news" and its real-world impact
  • How journalism helps citizens understand public policy and government spending
  • Why local reporting is essential for informed voting and civic engagement
  • The role of journalism in developing critical thinking skills
  • How echo chambers and media consolidation narrow public understanding
  • What is lost when readers stop engaging deeply with information

Drawing from her work covering state and local fiscal policy, Liz Farmer explains how journalists translate complex issues—like budgets, taxes, and public spending—into accessible knowledge for everyday citizens.

This episode asks an urgent question:
Can democracy function without a well-informed public?

If you've ever wondered:

  • Why is local journalism important?
  • What is happening to local news in the U.S.?
  • How does media affect democracy and voting?
  • Why is critical thinking declining?
  • How do we evaluate sources and credibility?

This conversation offers a powerful and timely perspective.

🎧 Listen now to understand why journalism, and the ability to think critically about information, matters more than ever.

Learn more about Liz Farmer's work: https://www.farmersfieldonline.com

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Hosted by Gwendolyn Dolske, Ph.D., and Rudy Salo, Good Is In The Details operates on the belief that the most profound insights are often hidden in plain sight, waiting to be unpacked. This philosophy and education podcast doesn't just skim the surface of big topics; it lingers there, examining the nuances of how we think, learn, and ultimately live our lives. You'll hear thoughtful, meandering conversations with scholars, authors, and practitioners from diverse fields, all centered on how ideas from ethics, culture, and critical thinking intersect with our daily realities. The hosts have a knack for breaking down complex academic concepts without losing their depth, making each episode feel like an engaging seminar you can enjoy on a walk or during your commute. Rather than offering easy answers, this podcast provides the tools and perspectives to ask better questions, finding the substance in the subtleties that we often overlook. It’s for anyone who believes that understanding the framework of an argument or the history of a thought is just as important as the conclusion. Tune in for a consistently thoughtful exploration of the books, theories, and cultural forces that quietly shape our world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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