Friday, April 3, 2015
Rita Allen Foundation Wants to Solve the Problem of 'Reader Alienation'
If the old adage is true, bad news may sell, but more often than not, it comes at a price. The constant avalanche of depressing news can make any reader throw up their arms in sheer hopelessness, accidentally knock over their grande latte, and audibly mutter, "What's the point?"
This problem is particularly acute among college kids, whose natural state, if we're to believe stodgy old sociologists, is one of inaction, alienation, and self-absorption (most notably evident in those "selfie-sticks"). Fortunately, this stereotype is inaccurate. Either way, the Rita Allen Foundation isn't taking any chances. The Princeton-based foundation recently awarded $515,000 to technology and media organizations to "support new work to build civic literacy and engagement...."