Meaning: The quote "The evening news is a concept whose time has come and gone" by Bernard Goldberg, a well-known writer and former television news reporter, reflects a critical perspective on the traditional format of the evening news. Goldberg's statement suggests that the once-dominant role of the evening news in shaping public understanding and discourse has diminished, and that the format is no longer as relevant or impactful as it once was.

In order to understand the significance of Goldberg's quote, it is important to consider the historical context of the evening news. For decades, the evening news served as a primary source of information for the public, with networks such as CBS, NBC, and ABC delivering the day's most important stories to millions of households across the country. The format of the evening news typically consisted of a half-hour broadcast featuring a mix of national and international news, human interest stories, and often a segment on sports and weather.

However, with the advent of the internet and digital media, the landscape of news consumption has undergone a radical transformation. Today, people have access to a vast array of news sources and platforms, from social media and news websites to podcasts and streaming services. The traditional evening news broadcast now competes with an abundance of on-demand and real-time news content, making it increasingly challenging for the format to maintain its once-dominant position.

One of the key factors contributing to the decline of the evening news is the shift in audience behavior and preferences. In an era of information abundance, viewers have become accustomed to accessing news and information whenever and wherever they choose. The rigid schedule of the evening news, airing at a specific time each day, no longer aligns with the on-demand nature of modern media consumption. As a result, many people now turn to digital platforms for news updates, tailored to their individual interests and schedules.

Furthermore, the traditional format of the evening news has been criticized for its limitations in providing in-depth analysis and context. With a limited time slot, broadcast networks often prioritize brevity and immediacy over comprehensive reporting, leaving little room for nuanced exploration of complex issues. This has led many viewers to seek out alternative sources of news that offer more detailed and diverse perspectives on important events and developments.

Additionally, the rise of opinion-driven and partisan news programming has contributed to the erosion of trust in the traditional evening news. Viewers are increasingly aware of the potential biases and agendas of news organizations, leading them to seek out sources that align with their own beliefs and values. This trend has further marginalized the once-universal appeal of the evening news, as audiences gravitate towards news content that reaffirms their existing viewpoints.

In light of these developments, Bernard Goldberg's assertion that "the evening news is a concept whose time has come and gone" carries significant weight. While the traditional format of the evening news may still have a dedicated audience, its influence and relevance have undoubtedly diminished in the face of a rapidly evolving media landscape. As digital platforms continue to reshape the way people consume news, the future of the evening news remains uncertain, prompting a reevaluation of its role in the broader context of journalism and information dissemination.

In conclusion, Bernard Goldberg's quote encapsulates a critical assessment of the traditional evening news format in the contemporary media landscape. The quote reflects the profound changes in news consumption patterns, audience preferences, and the competitive challenges posed by digital media. While the evening news once held a central position in informing and shaping public discourse, its waning influence and relevance have prompted a reexamination of its role in the broader context of journalism. As the media ecosystem continues to evolve, the future of the evening news remains a subject of ongoing debate and adaptation.