I have been trying to figure out the best way to do something, anything, about the terrible media landscape in our country.

Finally, I have come up with at least one step we can all take—and here is where you come in.

When media must rely on corporate advertisers, it often appeals to the lowest common denominator to get eyes on their content. Ultimately, the truth, quality and choice in subject matter suffer.

So. In the name of a well-informed world, I am challenging all of my friends (yes, even you) to support quality news and media by paying for a subscription to at least 10 good media outlets in perpetuity.

What counts? Media (most likely print and radio) that offers critical, in-depth reporting, artistic and creative work and creates their own content—not just rehashing AP articles or spouting opinion. Avoid outlets that are just echo chambers for our own opinions. Look for facts, science and critical thinking. (think NPR over Talk Radio.)

Try and support both big and indie media with your choices. If you stop subscribing to one then choose another to get you back to at least 10.

My suggestions:

News: Your local paper, NPR, The New York Times, The Economist,Democracy Now!, High Country News, Washington Post, etc.

Science/Technology/Business: Science, Discover, WIRED, FastCompany

Nature/World/Outdoors: National Geographic, Outside Magazine, Orion, Nature, etc.

Literature/Cultural/In-depth: The New Yorker, Harpers, New York Magazine, etc.

Lifestyle/spiritual/green: Yale Environment 360, elephant journal, Grist.org, etc.

I know I have left off many awesome and independent media, but here are just a few examples. What you subscribe to is up to you! Just make sure it is quality and they contribute good, fact-filled content.

Now go support good media and share the challenge widely! Feel free to post comments with 10 good media that you subscribe to (read: pay for)!

Read it all and become wiser for it, and remember, we get what you pay for!

 

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Editor: Catherine Monkman

Photo: Woodley Wonderworks/Flickr