ABSTRACT
While the outlook for news and even democracy may seem dire, there is always reason for optimism and hope. The good news about the increasing messiness of the news environment is that it has brought an increase in awareness of the challenges we face in democratic life. This is a great time to harness the growing attention to news and media literacy and spread critical awareness in order to help promote pro-social outcomes such as commitments to evidence-based knowledge, rational thought, and a tolerant, inclusive society. News and media literacy educational programs are on the rise both nationally and globally. Critical news literacy is a prerequisite for developing a more democratic news media system, that is, one that provides plenty of public service journalism and works to represent all citizens. Awareness of issues surrounding the production, distribution, and consumption of news and information media can equip citizens with the knowledge they need to successfully navigate the digital media landscape and participate in civic life. In this sense, the future of news literacy is inextricably linked to the future of democratic life.
