News coverage is the reporting of current events through a variety of media, including newspapers, radio, television and online news platforms. The process of news gathering is performed by journalists in newsrooms (newspaper, tv or magazine). Depending on the organization, it may focus on politics and foreign affairs, business, technology, sports or celebrity gossip. It also includes information and commentary that highlights human ingenuity, compassion or progress. News coverage is shaped by models of news making, which determine how a story is told and what kind of impact it can have on readers. A story is more likely to receive attention if it has a strong impact, incorporates violence and scandal, is familiar and local, and is timely.
While the majority of people believe that the news they read is factual and up-to-date, there are differences in their views about what constitutes news and entertainment. Some of these differences reflect political bias, which is often reflected in the content of news media. For example, Democrats and Republicans disagree on whether or not their favorite news sources are liberal or conservative.
As a result, the journalists and editors of news organizations have to be selective about what they report and how they present it. They are responsible for the public good and strive to provide the public with the knowledge they need to participate in democracy. However, like all humans, they are not immune to emotions such as anger, jealousy and ambition. These emotions often cloud their judgment, so they must carefully weigh the needs of their organization with their own professional ethics.