Why do we believe everything we hear?

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7299240n&tag=related;photovideo

Once this link takes you to the main CBS news page, search in the right hand side "recommendations" to watch the slip titled, "The Truth About Lies".

Although this video expresses the topic through subjective humor, it makes me think about what we believe on a day to day basis that is true.  I wonder what bits of information I have consumed since I was a child that have actually derived from truthful sources.  And how are we sure that something we hear or read is true or false?  We learn our facts through books, the Internet, and television.  Individuals that publish and broadcast stories and lesson plans are respected for their education and level of knowledge.  We tend to believe without hesitation.  It is also easy to listen intently to those we love and trust.  We do not second guess their ideas and observations. 

Also, once people learn and live by specific facts, it is difficult for them to diverge from those beliefs.  How can they depict whats the truth from a possible false statement? 

How do I get my news and what part does it play in my life?

The news floods our society by controlling every venue of entertainment and social networking systems that have become the center of attraction for most individuals.  For those of us who are computer gurus and would rather scan webpages than the newspaper, we are still exposed to the major headlines that are plastered on the front pages of every search engine home page.  News reports are being broadcasted every hour of the day whether that is on the television, radio, or Internet.  They are posted on numerous news related websites, Facebook ads, YouTube videos, and search engine articles. 

            Personally, I receive my daily dose of news from many of these media resources.  While getting ready in the morning, the news channel, which is normally Good Morning America or CBS, plays the role of background entertainment.  I attempt to grasp the important headlines that affect not only the local area I reside in but also worldly affairs that are detrimental to all societies.  Any other quantity of news comes from conversations with friends and family, radio station gossip, or the quick scanning of the reports published in magazines that are strategically placed to catch your eye.  One way or another, I am bound to learn about the latest news that is circling our gossip driven society.

            For me, news serves as a way to stay updated with the events and issues occurring all over the world that have an immediate and/or gradual effect on my life.  I find it important to understand our society and government at a political, environmental, and economical viewpoint.  This is possible by carefully assessing news reports while also being capable of standing by my own beliefs that guide my every day decisions as an American citizen.