Simplify to Engage: The News as Comforting Confirmation

Consumers of news often prefer content that does not challenge their existing beliefs or require them to critically examine their assumptions. After a long day, people seek reassurance, not complex investigations that demand mental effort and deeper contemplation. This desire for simplicity leads to news products that validate their current worldview, echoing historical propaganda tactics. By presenting a distorted yet simplified reality, these news outlets offer comfort and a sense of certainty, making it easy for individuals to tune in without engaging in difficult intellectual work.