Spoiler: we're paying for the news.
There's not some mysterious force beaming headlines into our brains - we pay for it, with our money or attention. And what are we buying? Shouting heads, shallow takes, and the latest "scandal-gate". We think we're paying for hard-hitting journalism, but... nope. It's like ordering a gourmet meal and getting fast food.
Almost everything else we buy has gotten better over the years. Has the news? Some outlets aim high, but too many are racing to the bottom and winning that race feels like losing. So next time you scroll, ask yourself: "Wait, I paid for this?"