As more and more newspapers fall victim to an evolving media landscape and the realities of a brutal economy, we can bemoan the demise of pure journalism. But to discuss such a topic in a blog, of all places, seems akin to pouring salt in an open wound. While most pundits are focused on the quality of newspaper reporting, I thought I would instead pay tribute to the medium’s less heralded values.
Newspapers have the unique distinction of being the only medium physically used for purposes beyond communication. They serve as hats, protecting balding sports fans from the sun’s rays; shield commuters from unexpected rainfall; are a key ingredient in the art of paper mache; predate bubble wrap as a packing material; line birdcages and play a vital role in house training new puppies.
While newspaper ink still gets on our hands, it has changed over the years. Ask anyone who has attempted to show today’s kids the real magic of Silly Putty using the Sunday Comics and you’ll see what I mean. This is due to the change from petroleum-based inks to the more environmentally friendly soy-based inks.
And speaking of the environment, perhaps most importantly, long before Al Gore inspired the masses to get with the environmental program, it was newspapers that originally taught us to reuse and recycle.
Tags: newspapers
