I think this misses the cultural and social reasons to read the news. Anecdotally, friends that don't keep up with the news or are more politically disengaged (

I think this misses the cultural and social reasons to read the news. Anecdotally, friends that don't keep up with the news or are more politically disengaged (i.e. don't vote) seem to have a tougher time making friends, going on dates, hanging out at a party, etc. In many ways, the news seems to serve a purpose analogous to sports in my circles; would anyone say that watching sports is a "waste of time"? I do agree with the sentiment that cable news is essentially reality TV (with less fun). Reading a New Yorker interview and debating it with friends is certainly healthier than zoning out in front of an endless stream of anger.