Panic buying: Media inflames needless phenomenon
Recent shortages of household staples during the virus outbreak is a direct result of two things: The media’s obsession with endlessly showing apocalyptic images of empty shelves, and the selfish behavior of some who respond by becoming panic gluttons.
There is no balance of reporting that explains that production of toilet paper, hand sanitizer and Top Ramen did not stop.
It’s no wonder that fewer people believe the “news” when it is more of a source of inflammation than useful information.
Rick Tanis, University Place
This story was originally published March 19, 2020 at 3:57 PM with the headline "Panic buying: Media inflames needless phenomenon."