Meaning: This quote by Jessica Savitch, a prominent journalist, reflects on the relationship between media coverage and audience discernment. It suggests that as the quality and scope of media coverage improve, the audience becomes more critical and selective in their consumption of news and information. Jessica Savitch was an American television broadcaster known for her work as a news anchor and correspondent. She experienced both the highs and lows of the media industry, and her insights into the dynamics between media coverage and audience perception remain relevant today.

The quote implies that as the media provides better and more comprehensive coverage of events, issues, and topics, viewers are no longer satisfied with superficial or biased reporting. Instead, they become discerning, seeking out in-depth analysis, diverse perspectives, and factual accuracy. This phenomenon can be attributed to the increasing access to information and the growing awareness among audiences about the importance of critical thinking and media literacy.

In today's digital age, where information is abundant and easily accessible, audiences are exposed to a wide array of sources and viewpoints. As a result, they have the opportunity to compare and evaluate different forms of media coverage, leading to a more discerning and critical approach to consuming news. The quote highlights the idea that the quality of media coverage directly impacts the attitudes and behaviors of the audience, prompting them to become more discriminating in their choices and interpretations of the news.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the responsibility of the media to uphold high standards of journalism and reporting. As the audience becomes more discriminating, journalists and news organizations are incentivized to maintain integrity, accuracy, and ethical conduct in their work. This encourages a symbiotic relationship between the media and the public, where the former strives to deliver quality content, and the latter engages thoughtfully and critically with the information presented.

The evolution of media platforms and technologies has also contributed to the phenomenon described in the quote. With the rise of social media, online news outlets, and digital streaming services, audiences have become accustomed to customizable and on-demand content. They can actively seek out specific topics, follow preferred journalists or commentators, and participate in discussions and debates on various platforms. This level of control and interactivity has empowered viewers to be more discerning in their media consumption, as they actively curate their information diet.

Moreover, the quote suggests that the relationship between media coverage and audience discernment is reciprocal. As the audience becomes more discriminating, media outlets are compelled to adapt and improve their reporting to meet the evolving expectations of their viewers. This cycle of demand and supply fosters a dynamic media landscape where quality and depth are valued, and superficial or biased coverage is scrutinized and challenged.

In conclusion, Jessica Savitch's quote encapsulates the dynamic interplay between media coverage and audience discernment. It emphasizes the pivotal role of the media in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of the public, while also highlighting the increasing discernment and critical thinking of modern audiences. As the media landscape continues to evolve, the quote serves as a reminder of the symbiotic relationship between quality journalism and an engaged, discerning audience.