“News isn't just what happens. It's what a fairly small group of people decide is news.”
Peter Hitchens
“News isn't just what happens. It's what a fairly small group of people decide is news.”
Peter Hitchens
Peter Hitchens, born on October 28, 1951, is a British journalist, author, and commentator known for his often contrarian views on politics, society, and culture. The quote, "News isn't just what happens. It's what a fairly small group of people decide is news," offers a sharp critique of how news is selected and presented to the public, highlighting the role of gatekeepers in the media.
This quote speaks to the concept of media framing and agenda-setting, where the priorities and perspectives of those who control the news—editors, producers, and media owners—shape what the public perceives as important. Hitchens suggests that the news is not a mere reflection of reality but is instead curated by a small group of individuals who decide which events, issues, and narratives deserve attention. This selection process inevitably involves biases, preferences, and judgments about what will attract readers or viewers, what aligns with the editorial stance of the media outlet, and what fits into broader societal or political agendas.
Hitchens' critique touches on a longstanding concern about the concentration of media ownership and the influence of a limited number of powerful entities on public discourse. When a small group controls what is reported, the diversity of perspectives is often narrowed, and certain voices or issues may be marginalized or ignored altogether. This can lead to a skewed understanding of reality, where the public's perception is shaped more by what is chosen to be highlighted than by what is actually happening in the world.
Moreover, this quote underscores the distinction between news and reality. While events occur independently of media coverage, the way these events are reported—or not reported—can significantly influence public opinion. For instance, certain crises may receive extensive coverage, while others are downplayed or overlooked, creating a disparity in awareness and concern among the public. This selective reporting can also influence political outcomes, social movements, and cultural trends, as the media plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative around key issues.
In a broader sense, Hitchens’ observation is a call for media literacy and critical thinking. It encourages individuals to be aware of the power dynamics behind the news, to question who is deciding what stories are told, and to seek out diverse sources of information to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the world. This awareness is increasingly important in an age where media consumption is pervasive, and the lines between news, opinion, and entertainment are often blurred.
Ultimately, Peter Hitchens’ quote is a reminder that what we see in the news is not a neutral or complete account of reality but a constructed narrative shaped by those who control the flow of information.